
Two-thirds of law firm staff see sustainability as important, but confidence and expertise are lacking.
A recent survey by Greenarc has revealed that while 66% of UK law firm employees believe their organisations have clear sustainability goals, many lack the confidence and expertise to implement them effectively.
The study, involving 100 legal sector employees, found only 38% of designated sustainability leaders feel fully equipped for their roles.
Is sustainability a priority for UK law firms?
Although 78% of firms have appointed individuals to lead green initiatives, sustainability remains a secondary priority for many. The survey found sustainability initiatives ranked behind other business concerns, such as cybersecurity, cost management, and digital transformation. Lower on the agenda are issues like sustainability, employee wellbeing, and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
Chris Bingham, chairman at Greenarc, explained, “While the sector recognises the importance of strong sustainability credentials, when push comes to shove, other demands take precedence.”
However, Chris continued, “73% of law firms recognise their sustainability efforts help engage new clients … The UK legal sector clearly recognises the impact of sustainability on both its workforce and its clients.”
Lack of awareness around Scope 4 emissions
The report also explored the importance of Scope 4 emissions, a type of greenhouse gas emission which is often associated with the matters on which lawyers. While 77% of respondents recognise their significance, only 18% integrate Scope 4 into their strategies, and 10% admitted they were unfamiliar with the concept.
Jonathan Simms, partner at Clarion, noted, “While the data suggests a significant majority of law firms have clear sustainability goals, the lack of confidence among those implementing them is striking. For me this highlights a need for upskilling, clearer frameworks, and external guidance to bridge the gap between strategy and execution.
“We know that our ESG activities and Net-Zero plan are important both for our employees, those looking for a career in the law, as well as our clients,” he continued. “Businesses want to ensure their legal suppliers, and supply chain in general, have a Net-Zero strategy in place – it is certainly a factor that organisations want to know we are addressing and have on our management agenda.”
Balancing sustainability with finances
Cost pressures also remain a significant barrier, with 40% of respondents citing financial constraints as a challenge to achieving sustainability goals. Chris Bingham added, “With the right guidance, law firms can start addressing their environmental objectives in a way that aligns with their financial constraints.”
We want to hear from you!
Are you a sustainability champion at your law firm, or do you think these initiatives are overshadowed by other business priorities? Share your thoughts and experiences with us at hello@yorkshirelegalnews.co.uk. We’d love to hear how your firm is tackling the green agenda—or why you think more needs to be done!