Since 2001 the Clayton Utz Climate Change group has brought together experts in energy and resources, renewable energy, taxation, insurance, environment and planning, regulated markets and financial services to advise some of Australia’s largest corporations, as well as Australian governments, departments and agencies on climate change law, including emerging clean technology, carbon markets and renewable energy. The Climate Change group lawyers are at the forefront of legal developments in this rapidly changing area of law, having: appeared frequently at major international and domestic carbon market forums; drafted the ISDA standard Greenhouse Carbon Trading Permit contract and derivatives for Australia; and advised the former Australian Department of Climate Change on the design and implementation of Australia’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (emissions trading scheme).
As one of Australia’s leading law firms, Clayton Utz have implemented environmental initiatives that assist them to understand business impacts and incorporate sustainability into decision making. The Firm has adopted initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of its operations and raising awareness of sustainability issues. In FY16 they reduced electricity usage by 12.5% and have offset FY16 carbon emissions, as measured in line with the federal government’s Climate Active program, through the purchase of carbon credits. They have now implemented the certified AusLSA Environmental Management System (AEMS) allowing them to fully understand and manage environmental risks and minimise impacts.