Shoosmiths signs up to the Science Based Targets initiative in net zero carbon push

As part of its commitment to set a pathway towards a net zero carbon future, UK law firm Shoosmiths has committed to setting science-based targets through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Shoosmiths has committed to set science-based emissions reduction targets across the entire value chain that are consistent with keeping global warming to no more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Shoosmiths has also committed to a long-term target to reach net-zero emissions by no later than 2050.

This builds on a previous decision for its operations to become carbon net zero by 2025.

The SBTI’s ‘Business Ambition for 1.5°C’ campaign, which the firm has signed up to, is an urgent call-to-action for companies to set emissions reduction targets in line with a 1.5°C future.

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a collaboration between a number of organisations: CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

It defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting and independently assesses companies’ targets. More than 1,000 businesses in different sectors are working with the SBTi to reduce their emissions in line with climate science.

Shoosmiths’ chairman, Peter Duff, said: “Shoosmiths is proud to be a signatory to the SBTi. We want to be part of the solution that invests in and delivers a stable climate and a zero-carbon economy.

“Businesses have a key part to play in driving this agenda. Since 2012, the firm has published its sustainability progress annually. Our disclosure has included annual target setting, key performance indicators and reporting on progress for instance to reduce energy consumption, manage our waste streams and use resources wisely. Our agile working model is also key to a more sustainable future. But there is always more that can be done, and we see sustainability as a firm priority.

“As such, our colleagues are invested in meeting this challenge and we’re also here to assist clients should they require it, too.”

Shoosmiths is also a signatory to the UN Global Compact since January 2016, the world’s largest global sustainability initiative. In addition, Shoosmiths was a founding member of the Law Society’s Legal Sustainability Alliance (LSA) and one of the early members to sign up to its Legal Renewables Initiative. The firm has also been a corporate member of Business in the Community since 2000, with Shoosmiths supporting its Challenge 2030:make the climate crisis history - calling on bold leadership from business to increase the speed of action, scale of ambition and scope of influence.