Law firms cite cost pressures as barrier to reaching sustainability goals
updated on 28 January 2025
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Cost pressures have been cited as a significant barrier to law firms achieving their sustainability goals, according to new research by carbon reduction consultancy Greenarc, despite increasing demands from clients and employees.
Of the 100 UK-based law firms that took part in Greenarc’s November 2024 survey, 66% claimed to have clear sustainability goals, 78% said they had appointed an individual to lead their green initiatives, but only 38% of those dedicated sustainability champions believe they have the complete knowledge required to effectively fulfil their roles.
Despite the costs associated with sustainability initiatives, the commitment is valued by both employees and clients. Chair of Greenarc, Chris Bingham, said: “The UK legal sector clearly recognises the impact of sustainability on both its workforce and clients. Two-thirds of our respondents indicated that a firm’s sustainability credentials would be a deciding factor when choosing their next employer. Similarly, 73% of law firms recognise their sustainability efforts help engage new clients.”
Bingham added that “while the sector recognises the importance of strong sustainability credentials, when push comes to shove, other demands take precedence”.
As the legal sector comes “under increasing pressure from clients and employees to demonstrate greener policies”, the report highlighted the need for increased governmental support, financial aid and supportive policies “if the law sector is to unlock the vast opportunity to effect meaningful change and drive the charge toward net zero”. However, even without additional governmental support, the report urged law firms to “reframe” sustainability as a “long-term cost-saving strategy”, rather than an additional financial burden.
While 51% of law firms surveyed named sustainability as their top priority, these efforts were overshadowed by cybersecurity (92%), cost management (81%) and digital transformation (68%).
