Law firm’s efforts to increase environmental sustainability

Environmental concern has steadily increased over the past 10 years but most law firms have done little to recognize the importance of environmental sustainability.  Law firms mandate pro bono programs, participate in charity events, offer volunteer hours, and hold holiday fundraisers but do little to promote protecting the environment. As a participant in the community, leader in society, and having a duty to represent our clients and their best interests should we not also be forced to be cognizant of what we can do for the environment.

While some of the St. Louis area law firms have programs to lower their carbon footprint many have realized that it is not easy to start sustainability programs. Looking too big with no real goal can be a deterrent for many firms. If you are just starting a program at your firm keep in mind that being green can be as easy as implementing a firm-wide recycling program or using a business partner who offers services focused on recycling and reusing. The cost and time associated with researching and starting these programs may be challenging for many firms so try starting small to achieve a higher rate participation from your firm.

Starting a sustainability program is best done by first forming a sustainability or green committee. Including someone from your environmental practice and adding several attorneys to the committee will add to the credibility and buy-in of the rest of your firm. Be sure that the committee only consists of individuals who will be true leaders in the green initiative. Once the committee is formed there are many ways to limit the environmental impact of your firms employees but educating your office on what is being done and why must occur first. Use every opportunity available to inform your employees of the changes and why they are being implemented. The more information people have on the why behind the actions the better chance they will follow the lead of the sustainability committee.

Easy ways to start lowering your firm’s carbon footprint:

Using energy smart light bulbs

Buying energy star office, kitchen and electronic equipment

Repurpose old office furniture and supplies

Recycle old equipment, batteries, toner cartridges, bottles, cans, paper, etc.

Adding recycling bins to each office and meeting space

Using only recycled paper

Make double side copies

Set-up copiers and computers to go to sleep mode after 10 minutes of inactivity

Limit printed emails

Distribute all internal memos and faxes electronically

Reduce business travel

Promote staying at environmentally friendly hotels

Promote carpooling or using public transportation through subsidies and reimbursements

Limit paper and Styrofoam cups in your office

Use filtered water as opposed to bottled water

 

The ABA encourages law firms to conserve energy and think about the environmental impact of your day to day practice as well.  Law firms can participate in the ABA –EPA Law Office Climate Challenge by undertaking several best practices for conserving energy.

St. Louis area firms recognized through the ABA Challenge are:

  • Bryan Cave LLP
  • Greensfelder Hemker & Gale, P.C.
  • Heyl, Royster, Voelker & Allen
  • Littler Mendelson, P.C.
  • Thompson Coburn LLP

For more information go to www.americanbar.org/groups

Carrie Titus is an attorney and is Director of Sales and Marketing at PohlmanUSA Court Reporting. She can be reached at [email protected].





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