Team size: Nine  

Can you discuss your or your company’s efforts relating to renewability, sustainability, or other environmentally friendly activities?

Big infrastructure and construction projects have a significant impact on our environment, necessitating adherence to stringent environmental standards. Regulatory agencies play a crucial role in developing these standards, covering aspects such as waste management, energy consumption, and habitat preservation. It is imperative for construction companies to comply with these regulations to minimise their ecological footprint and avoid legal repercussions. 

Lawsuits and litigation related to environmental non-compliance can arise in several scenarios. Hence, as general counsel, we must set our standards and foresee potential issues to avoid lawsuits stemming from environmental non-compliance. This requires proactive measures and a commitment to sustainable practices from our end. 

However, compliance with policies and procedures is not automatic. General counsel must provide a wide range of effective training and education programmes to help our construction employees understand the importance of environmental compliance and how to adhere to regulations and internal policies. General counsel must be aware that ensuring compliance requires proactive incorporation of environmental regulations into company policies. This includes advising employees of their duties, responsibilities, and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Why are in-house lawyers well-placed to drive change in their organisations?

The role of in-house legal teams has evolved significantly, positioning them as integral drivers of organisational change. This evolution stems from the increasing complexity of legal landscapes and the need for comprehensive risk management strategies. In times of crisis, general counsel and their teams emerge as indispensable assets, providing stability and effective solutions to unforeseen challenges. As in-house legal teams continue to gain prominence, they serve as trusted advisors, offering strategic guidance and rapid responses to emerging issues.

It can be challenging to measure a company’s track record in environmentally friendly behaviour. What, in your opinion, has mostly been missed in discussions about how green a company is?

Evaluating a company’s environmental track record can be challenging due to various economic and regulatory factors. While compliance costs may be high, general counsel can spearhead internal policy reforms aimed at enhancing cost-effectiveness and regulatory efficiency. By implementing innovative solutions and leveraging market-based incentives, companies can adopt a forward-looking approach to environmental compliance. This includes removing existing barriers and disincentives, while maximising the benefits of fiscal, economic, and environmental regulations.