Legal Sector Alliance Award for Excellence in Environmental Responsibility 2012

Winner

Muckle LLP
Newcastle firm Muckle set itself the goal of being a 'responsible business'. It achieved this by engaging with staff using incentives, competitions and firm-wide encouragement to get involved in a range of sustainability initiatives. The commitment of the team, supported by a continuous review process, has seen the firm successfully adopt a new sustainable ethos.

Highly commended

Allen & Overy LLP
In 2011 Allen & Overy cleaned out their waste management system, to develop ways to eliminate, reduce or recycle wherever possible. Initiatives included new reporting protocols, compostable containers and cutlery in all in-house catering, and a new food waste collection service for composting leftover food scraps. The new regime was supported by a charging system for waste, analysis of food waste production sources and a comprehensive internal communications campaign.

Eversheds LLP
Eversheds reduced their carbon footprint from 14,329 tCO2e in 2009, to 12,001 in 2011. The firm uses biomass generated electricity (100 per cent renewable sources) and manages energy through lighting occupancy sensors and more efficient LED lights, new systems to reduce gas and electricity consumption and a host of other initiatives. The firm is committed to recycling, with over 86.1 per cent of waste recycled in 2011.

Shortlisted

Bindmans LLP
Bindmans used their relocation in May 2012 to implement a recycling and carbon footprint minimisation strategy. The suppliers for the new office have been specifically selected for their green credentials, working with City Green as the main contractor.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer improved their environmental performance in 2011 by adapting working practices, raising awareness, investing in energy-efficient technology and minimising waste and resource use. As a result the firm reduced total energy consumption by 26 per cent compared to a 2008/09 baseline. The firm raises awareness of environmental issues through global emails and encourages internal dialogue through their Green Ideas portal.

Simmons & Simmons LLP
Simmons & Simmons targeted the reduction of pollution and improving local air quality through two programmes to reduce direct use of fossil fuels. The Summer Boiler Strategy specifically targeted unnecessary gas use, and the Walk to Client programme aimed to reduce short taxi journeys.