Catalyzes the first step in a degradation pathway of oxalate to CO(2) to protect the cell against the harmful effects of oxalate derived from endogenous processes or an environmental sources. ATP + CoA + oxalate = AMP + diphosphate + oxalyl-CoA Optimum pH is 7.5. Interacts with PEX5. Imported in peroxisome via recognition by the peroxisomal targeting signal receptor PEX5. By oleic acid. The FACS motif is required for catalytic activity and substrate specificity. Decreases recovery from exposure to oxalate, to oxalate-secreting microbes, and to oxidative stress. Present with 8770 molecules/cell in log phase SD medium. Belongs to the ATP-dependent AMP-binding enzyme family.