ESG Case Study: DLA Piper London
DLA Piper London’s Strategy and Key Areas for Improvement
Summary
Overview
DLA Piper London is a large global law firm operating in over 40 countries and advising on a wide range of areas including commercial, intellectual and property law. A current ESG strategy was strengthened with additional advice and guidance that will achieve measurable results.
This case study highlights DLA Piper’s Europe’s targeted ESG aims and strategies in social reporting and transparency, emissions tracking, stakeholder engagement and social impact programmes. Let’s start with the result!
Conclusion
- A clear ESG strategy and commitment has been developed with defined aims to accurately measure carbon footprint and emissions.
- There is a commitment to having 40% of partners being female by 2030 and at least half of internal promotions coming from underrepresented groups.
- Planned social impact initiatives will improve the firm’s reputation and contribute to societal progress.
- Rise IQ facilitated collaborations with social enterprises and non-profits to design and implement impactful initiatives.
Rise IQ Recommendations: Aims, Actions & Impacts
Rise IQ’s strategic insights and practical solutions helped DLA Piper approach current challenges, strengthen its sustainability goals and develop transparency in reporting.
Enhanced Reporting and Transparency
Aim: Increase the frequency and depth of ESG reporting, providing detailed updates on progress, challenges, and future goals.
Action: Training DLA Piper’s internal teams on best practices for ESG reporting and integrating these practices into operational workflows.
Impact: Build greater trust and accountability with stakeholders, showcasing the firm’s commitment to transparency.
Scope 3 Emissions Tracking
Aim: Accurately and effective measuring and reporting of Scope 3 emissions.
Action: Rise IQ guided the development of robust systems for accurately measuring and reporting Scope 3 emissions, particularly from supply chain activities.
Impact: A clearer understanding of indirect emissions will enable more effective reduction strategies and improve overall environmental performance.
Broader Stakeholder Engagement
Aim: Expand engagement efforts to include a wider range of stakeholders such as community groups, NGOs, and customers.
Action: Lena designed an inclusive stakeholder engagement strategy to involve a broader range of voices.
Impact: This will ensure a more comprehensive approach to sustainability and uncover new ESG risks and opportunities. It also led to more informed decision-making and stronger community relations.
Strengthening Social Impact Programs
Aim: To develop targeted programs addressing social inequalities.
Action: Leveraging her social entrepreneurship experience, Lena helped to develop targeted programs addressing social inequalities. Rise IQ facilitated collaborations with social enterprises and non-profits to design and implement impactful initiatives.
Impact: Enhancing social impact initiatives will improve the firm’s reputation and contribute to societal progress.
Further Strategic Recommendations
Environmental Efforts
- Carbon Neutrality: DLA Piper aims to reduce its carbon footprint across all three scopes by 50% by 2030 and achieve a 90% reduction by 2040, with remaining emissions neutralized through carbon removal.
- Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency: The firm plans to transition to renewable electricity across Europe by 2025 and globally by 2030. This includes optimizing energy use in their offices and designing sustainable workspaces.
- Certifications and Initiatives: DLA Piper aligns its environmental actions with recognized standards such as ISO 14001, ISO 50001, and the UN Global Compact.
Social Responsibility
- Diversity and Inclusion: The firm is committed to having 30% of all partners be women by 2025 and 40% by 2030, with at least half of internal partner promotions coming from underrepresented groups.
- Community Engagement: Programs like the Head Start initiative support young people facing barriers to entering the legal profession, and the Global Scholarships Program nurtures future lawyers in developing countries.
- Pro Bono Work: DLA Piper engages in numerous pro bono projects, including providing legal advice to over 4,000 Ukrainian refugees through an online portal.
Governance
- Sustainability Leadership: The firm has appointed senior leaders & established a Sustainability & ESG steering committee to integrate ESG into their core business strategy.
- Client Advisory Services: DLA Piper supports clients in transitioning to sustainable practices, helping them manage ESG risks and create opportunities through comprehensive advisory services.
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