Alexandra Sadvari

In the realm of environmental law, Alex Sadvari stands out as a partner at Gowling WLG's Toronto office. Her expertise spans environmental, renewable energy, land use planning, and development law. As a leader in her field, she holds a position on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Biogas Association and co-leads the firm's BioEnergy Group, assisting clients in launching biogas, renewable natural gas (RNG), biomass, and liquid biofuel initiatives across Ontario and the nation.

Her tenure included a pivotal year at Ontario Power Generation Inc., where she tackled environmental law challenges across the board, including risk management, regulatory compliance, and the oversight of inspections and investigations, particularly within nuclear and hydroelectric domains. This in-house role enriched her understanding of the energy sector and the complexities faced by in-house counsel, enhancing her ability to predict and fulfill client demands effectively.

Sadvari's clientele is diverse, encompassing corporate, municipal, and Indigenous groups. She offers strategic regulatory counsel and representation, often bridging environmental law with land use planning. Her advice spans a broad spectrum, from provincial and federal assessments to municipal law, land development, environmental risks in transactions, and more. Her proficiency extends to natural resource management, endangered species approvals, soil management, fisheries act compliance, and the regulation of environmentally sensitive materials and products.

Collaborating with a team of multidisciplinary experts, Sadvari has successfully secured critical approvals for her clients under various legislative frameworks, including environmental compliance, zoning by-law changes, and permits related to environmental protection, pest control, and endangered species conservation.

Moreover, Sadvari is a fierce advocate in regulatory prosecutions, administrative and planning appeals, and judicial reviews, representing clients before tribunals like the Ontario Land Tribunal and in court proceedings.

Her practice areas cover a wide range, including Food & Beverage, Energy, Nuclear, Life Sciences, Mining, Cannabis, Climate Change and Environmental Law, Municipal Law, and Environmental Litigation.

Sadvari's academic background is impressive, with a JD from Queen's University in 2010, an MA from Columbia University in 2005, and a BA from McGill University in 2003. Her educational journey underpins her comprehensive approach to environmental law, making her a trusted advisor and advocate in her field.