ZELA works to promote environmental justice and sustainable natural resource management in Zimbabwe through legal and policy interventions. Their approach combines legal advocacy with practical support to communities affected by environmental and resource governance issues.

The organization implements multiple programs including: environmental law and policy advocacy; community rights support; climate justice initiatives; and natural resource governance strengthening. They work to ensure environmental laws and policies protect both nature and community rights while promoting sustainable development.

Through their efforts, ZELA has successfully advocated for improved environmental policies, supported numerous communities in protecting their environmental rights, and contributed to better natural resource governance. Their work has demonstrated how legal approaches can drive effective environmental protection and social justice.