Read more about: Press Release,
22 April 2024
On Earth Day, leading public law firm Sharpe Pritchard LLP proudly reaffirms its commitment to supporting renewable energy projects across the UK and its ongoing dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. The firm has established itself as a leader in sustainable infrastructure and regulated energy and water sectors, contributing to landmark renewables projects across the UK. In the realm of central government energy, Sharpe Pritchard acts as the primary legal adviser on various Net Zero initiatives, engaging in pivotal national projects.
The firm’s comprehensive regulatory work includes advising energy and water regulators on innovative funding, policies and frameworks to facilitate multi-billion-pound investments in the UK’s critical energy and water infrastructure.
Leading the charge is Steve Gummer, a renowned energy and regulated water lawyer, who guides Sharpe Pritchard’s highly specialised team in delivering significant Net Zero infrastructure projects.
Sharpe Pritchard’s ‘Green Steves’ initiative exemplifies its commitment to assisting local government clients in the critical role that they play in addressing the climate change crisis at both the national and local levels. The scheme offers unparalleled support and consultancy on environmental strategies, such as embedding “green” practices into everyday business-as-usual activities across all practice areas.
Nadia Biles Davies, the firm’s COO lead’s the firm approach to net zero and sustainability. They have successfully eliminated scope 1 and 2 emissions by using 100 per cent renewable electricity from ergonomically sustainable sources. In alignment with this year’s call to action demanding a 60% reduction in global plastic production by 2040, the firm has already taken significant steps, including the complete removal of single-use plastics from their operations. Additionally, they have implemented various initiatives, such as conducting supplier audits to ensure alignment with our values, utilising electric delivery vehicles for office supplies, and promoting Fairtrade products whenever possible to name a few.
While the average law firm in the UK has a carbon footprint of approximately 39,532 tCO2e, Sharpe Pritchard has significantly reduced theirs to just 269.6 tCO2e per year tCO2e [1]. Furthermore, Planet Mark has determined that Sharpe Pritchard’s total social value contribution amounts to £436,419, which translates to £4,576 per employee.
Looking forward, Sharpe Pritchard will host an industry-first net zero and carbon reduction conference in the autumn of 2024. The event will emphasise the significance and practical aspects of achieving net zero status for businesses, featuring talks and panel discussions led by industry experts and organisations experienced in the journey towards net zero.
It is no surprise that the firm was shortlisted for the inaugural Legal 500 ESG Awards this year, which recognise organisations and individuals across the legal sector for their efforts to “bring about change across all aspects of ESG, including diversity, inclusion and environmental and sustainability strategy.
Speaking about Earth Day, Steve Gummer said: “As we celebrate this momentous international awareness day, we remain immensely proud of our extensive involvement in sustainable infrastructure projects and robust ESG commitments, which highlight our environmental advocacy within the legal sector.
“The firm remains dedicated to advancing our sustainability initiatives, supporting our clients’ green goals, and contributing positively to the wider society and the planet.”
To find out more about Sharpe Pritchard’s green initiatives, please visit https://www.sharpepritchard.co.uk/about-us/sustainability-and-net-zero/
Notes
[1] Managing climate change: are law firms making progress on carbon emissions? | Evelyn Partners
