While the ‘E’ in ESG commands plenty of attention, the ‘S’ can sometimes be overlooked. In this episode, we consider why environmental progress is only possible when social progress is made too.

Regular Game Changers host Elena Lambros, Risk Advisory Partner, is joined by colleagues from around the globe including sustainability and climate law specialist Becky Clissmann, senior social impacts manager Helena Yeaman, and environmental, climate and energy law specialist Gaëlle Cognet, to explore the human dimensions of net zero.

Together, they draw upon the legacy of founder William Ashurst and his four daughters, who were all advocates for social justice. Their conversation takes in Ashurst Perkins Coie's Modern Slavery Action Plan and the firm’s pro bono work supporting survivors around the world, as well as Ashurst Perkins Coie's procurement practices and its approach to modern slavery risk in the supply chain.

There’s also discussion of:

• Why climate change acts as a multiplier of exploitation, displacement and human rights risk
• Adaptation challenges facing vulnerable regions, from small island states to mainland Europe
• How to embed just transition principles throughout a credible transition plan (rather than leaving them sidelined a single paragraph)
• How financing tools can help deliver a fairer transition in Africa.

Further reading:

• Transition Planning
• COP 30: A further step towards a just transition in Africa; and
• Adapting to climate change: innovative tools in development and climate finance

To listen to this episode search for “ESG Matters by Ashurst Perkins Coie” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This podcast is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.