Steve Gummer, Partner and Head of Net Zero at leading public law firm, Sharpe Pritchard, has been highlighted as a pioneer of sustainability in the legal sector in new research published by Legal 500 Green Guide.
Released on 26 November, the research profiles industry leaders “fighting for a sustainable future”, featuring Steve alongside fellow leaders in ESG and green energy law.
Steve was recognised not only for his integral role in building the firm’s Net Zero and sustainability practice – which has seen it undertake work on some of the most groundbreaking public sector projects and introduce its free feasibility support service – but also for his advocacy for net zero in the legal sector itself.
Quoted in the cutting-edge research, Steve said: “Law is a powerful tool for social and environmental change. […] The world doesn’t need more lawyers; it needs more lawyers with a green conscience.’ Those with passion and commitment who are willing to take action and push boundaries.
“Traditional legal frameworks and firms aren’t just outdated; they are part of the problem. Many law firms claim to do green work but still handle oil and gas deals – that contradiction doesn’t sit right with me.”
An experienced specialist in sustainability in public law, Steve co-leads the firm’s ‘Green Steves’ initiative alongside industry consultant and local authority adviser Steve Cirell, delivering clear, accessible support for public sector energy projects.
In no small part because of Steve’s innovative work, the firm achieved a place in the Legal 500 Green Guide earlier in 2024.
Steve said: “It’s an honour to be included in this research and to have the opportunity to draw the sector’s attention to the importance of supporting sustainability through the law.
“There are many talented people doing incredible work across the industry to make law a more sustainable profession and to help us practice what we preach – particularly in the matters we handle and the advice we give to clients undertaking large-scale infrastructure, energy or water projects.
“Looking forward, it will be increasingly important for leaders in the field to take bold steps to accelerate the pace of change.
“All law firms can take steps to become more sustainable, whatever their size or area of practice – whether that’s going paperless or allotting time to pro bono work that supports green goals.
“I look forward to what the next few years will bring for the legal sector and its sustainability objectives – with Sharpe Pritchard and our incredible team at the forefront!”
