The UN sustainable development goals for 2030 define 17 areas relating to climate and the environment, as well as economic and social affairs, where there is still global scope for improvement. Reaching the sustainable development goals requires business to take an active role. As lawyers, knowledge is our key resource. It is through strategic advice and close cooperation with our clients that we can contribute most effectively to sustainable development.
If we are to reach the Paris Agreement goals and the UN sustainable development goals, we have no time to lose. An inadequate pace of development is not necessarily the result of insufficient commitment or understanding, and may well reflect regulatory impediments. The new EU Sustainable Finance Action Plan represents a shift from soft law to hard law. We are getting a regulatory framework with the potential to boost development and ensure that we reach the goals.
We are the ‘go-to’ strategic advisors for businesses, also when it comes to assessing risks and opportunities relating to climate change and other aspects of sustainable development. Our sustainability and climate risk practice group (established in 2018) includes partners, attorneys and associates from a broad range of disciplines. By integrating sustainability into our legal advice across all industries, we can help our clients add long-term value.