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Freshfields affirms commitment to ambitious climate action through science-based targets
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (‘Freshfields’) has affirmed its commitment to ambitious climate action by publishing externally approved science-based targets (SBTs) - an important step on the firm’s journey towards a net zero carbon future.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), created by prominent environmental organisations, the WWF, CDP, WRI and the UNGC, responds to the need for consistent climate action and reporting by organisations globally, using the most up-to-date climate science.
The near-term targets address the key areas where Freshfields can make a significant impact and are baselined to FY 2018/19:
- 55% combined reduction of Scope 1 and 2 emissions (operational and energy supply) by 2027
- 100% renewable electricity supply to all offices by 2030 (commitment to RE100), with a milestone of 80% by 2025
- 30% reduction in other fuel and energy related emissions by 2027
- 35% reduction in business travel emissions by 2027
- 62% of our suppliers (by emissions) to be committed to SBTs by 2027.
The goals represent an increase in ambition by the firm beyond the commitments set out in 2021, and the pledges sit within a refreshed comprehensive delivery plan for firm-wide environmental improvement that spans the firm’s workplace (including building energy), travel, waste, catering and procurement.
Tackling the 21st Century’s greatest challenge requires all businesses to play their part. Freshfields will do this through meeting its SBTs and through its advice to clients on their journey towards net zero.
Freshfields’ sustainability leadership group, chaired by Tim Wilkins, Global Partner for Client Sustainability, in New York, support clients through all aspects of their legal journey. This includes strategic advice focused on embedding ESG throughout organisations, as well as navigating the risks and opportunities of the transition towards sustainability.
The group has been bolstered with the appointment last year of Dr Jake Reynolds as Head of Client Sustainability & Environment, adding academic and consultative expertise to the firm’s sustainability offering.
