Zach Pilchen is an environmental lawyer based in Washington, D.C., with a practice centered on the Clean Air Act and air quality regulation. Drawing on years in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of General Counsel, he helps companies and trade associations navigate air permitting, compliance obligations, enforcement risk, and engagement in rulemakings involving air emissions, greenhouse gases, and climate policy. Clients value his ability to translate technical and regulatory programs into clear, business-focused advice that supports long-term planning and operational resilience.

Before entering private practice, Mr. Pilchen served in both career and appointed roles at EPA across the Obama, Trump, and Biden administrations and received awards from EPA and the U.S. Department of Justice. He played key roles in developing major Clean Air Act rules, including state implementation plans and interstate air pollution programs related to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, as well as federal greenhouse gas standards for the power sector. On detail to the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, he advised on oversight and regulatory reform and supported bipartisan legislation such as the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act and the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act, advancing cleaner technologies and protections for communities.

In private practice, Mr. Pilchen previously served as deputy chair of the air and climate group at a leading environmental boutique. He advises clients in sectors including transportation, chemicals, technology, manufacturing, retail, and construction. He earned an LL.M. (highest honors) from George Washington University Law School and a J.D. (magna cum laude) from Lewis & Clark Law School.