As the push towards ESG-focussed business practices gains momentum, Asian law firms are playing a vital role in guiding clients through the complex regulatory landscape, helping clients identify regulatory risks and potential opportunities, as well as providing legal protection and solutions. In this inaugural ranking, ALB spotlights 15 law firms that are delivering exceptional legal services in the ESG space.  

Can you discuss the types of services your firm offers to help clients meet their ESG goals and objectives?

We advise clients on:

• ESG gap analyses, benchmarking and supply chain due diligence
• Structuring of ESG strategies, and legal agreements
• Sustainability-linked transactions, e.g. financing, impact investments and green assets
• Managing ESG-related legal exposure, including greenwashing, misrepresentations and disclosures
• ESG-related regulatory compliance, legal registries, and other studies

How does your firm assist clients in understanding and navigating the various regulations and guidelines related to ESG issues?

Our ESG & Public Policy team is uniquely multi-disciplinary, comprising experienced lawyers and economists widely recognised as leaders across all areas of law, ESG, and government affairs. We advise on how ESG translates into legal risks and obligations, and provide structuring, protection, and solutions for clients’ ESG needs.

Can you provide examples of how your firm has helped clients develop and implement sustainability strategies, such as reducing their carbon emissions or increasing their use of renewable energy?

We advise clients on all their legal needs concerning “green change”. This includes shaping regulations on climate change, managing reputational risks, structuring of green financing, power purchasing and development of green assets. We also advised on the establishment of the world’s first carbon exchange and marketplace, Climate Impact X, utilising satellite monitoring, machine learning and blockchain technology to enhance transparency, integrity and quality of carbon credits.

How does your firm collaborate with clients to ensure ESG considerations are integrated into their business operations and decision-making processes?

We see ourselves as a key business partner to our clients. Our multidisciplinary practice comprising experts in every related field, and our regional ASEAN network enable us to provide holistic legal advice in every step of our clients’ ESG journey. We also undertook our own sustainability study, and were the first ASEAN law firm signatory of the United Nations Global Compact. We understand our clients’ pain points and the innovative solutions they need.

Can you discuss the role your firm plays in advising clients on ESG-related risk management and how you help them identify and address potential ESG-related challenges and opportunities?

We take a holistic approach in advising clients – we understand their business, stakeholders, global markets, policy, and the regulatory landscape. We provide all-rounded perspectives on the matter at hand, and assist them in planning for contingencies and shaping the landscape to cater to their evolving ESG needs.