Framework for Net Zero Alignment: Practical steps commercial law firms can take to accelerate the transition

The Net Zero Lawyers Alliance today releases its Framework for Net Zero Alignment for Commercial Law Firms.

The need for strong climate action is increasingly urgent and many organisations have responded by setting their own net zero targets – including commercial law firms. However, targets alone are not enough.  

The Framework provides guidance on the steps that commercial law firms can take to reduce their own greenhouse gas emissions, manage climate-related risks and unlock opportunities to facilitate the global transition to net zero.

The Framework centres on:

• Ambition – highlighting the importance clear targets for emissions reduction, capacity building, net-zero aligned advice and pro bono services that break down the legal barriers to transition.

• Action – clarifying the actions firms can take to identify and manage climate-related transition risk, opportunity and influence, and equips firms to achieve their climate commitments.

• Accountability – recommending that firms adopt appropriate governance and reporting mechanisms that track progress and provide the detailed information their clients need.

Our CEO, Georgina Beasley, said: “the NZLA Secretariat is incredibly excited to release this document, which supports law firms specifically to navigate critical changes in their clients’ operating environment and promote future proof legal services as they transition alongside their client base”.

The Framework builds on research and literature from the private sector, non-governmental organisations and government departments and has been informed by consultation. The NZLA would like to thank everyone who contributed to the development of the Framework, including the NZLA Steering Group and our partners.

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