Among the goals is to reduce its global energy consumption by 92% by 2030
Baker McKenzie unveiled on Wednesday lofty targets to cut its carbon emissions around the world in the next decade.
Representatives for the firm said that they were prioritising the drastic reduction of their greenhouse gas emissions.
“Climate change is a priority and a concern for many people at our firm, as well as for our clients and the communities where we do business. Our various stakeholders want to know that we are part of the solution,” said Christie Constantine, the firm’s global director of sustainability.
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The firm announced a plan consisting of three major action points, which are in harmony with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The firm has committed to reduce its global energy consumption by 92% by 2030, from a 2019 baseline; develop a strategy and target by 2021 to lower emissions from its business air travel; and report its emissions with the Carbon Disclosure Project starting in 2020.
Among specific initiatives unveiled by the firm to achieve its commitment to sustainability is improving the energy efficiency of its offices by shifting to green buildings. It also intends to focus on procuring renewable energy credits.
Baker McKenzie also plans to eliminate the need for non-essential air travel, which has been identified as the firm’s most substantial source of carbon emissions, through utilising video-conferencing technology instead of conducting face-to-face meetings.
The firm has partnered with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and the Carbon Pricing Leadership Coalition, and intends to ally itself with other initiatives that champion sustainability.
“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing humanity,” said Ai Ai Wong, global executive committee member and chair of the firm’s Asia-Pacific region and the global environmental committee. “Limiting warming requires everyone – including Baker McKenzie – to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, without delay. We are setting targets to drive better environmental performance across our global operations, and to clearly demonstrate our commitment.”