We recognise the scientific consensus that limiting global heating to 1.5 degrees Celsius is fundamental to preventing the very worst effects of climate change. We also recognise the likelihood that the developing crisis will bring increased global inequality and, in turn, an increased risk of conflict and global disruption, affecting access to justice and the rule of law.
We believe, for these reasons and as a matter of fundamental social responsibility, that the profession has a duty to join the global effort to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change and recognises its central role in supporting its members in doing so.
What are we doing?
Assisting barristers with their professional obligations
The Nature and Climate Panel will also explore how best to support the profession in terms of how the climate crisis might affect its ethical obligations, as well as ensuring that barristers have adequate training on related issues.
Working with other organisations and wider society
English common law and the Bar of England and Wales have always been at the forefront of legal innovation and championing the rule of law, both at home and abroad. To that end, the Nature and Climate Panel intends to support local and national governmental bodies to translate targets into climate action. Additionally, we hope to foster relationships internationally to take wider action.
Find out more about the Nature and Climate Panel, which reports to the Pro Bono and Social Responsibility Committee.
Find out more about membership of the Bar Sustainability Network, providing a range of services and support for chambers, Inns and others to help the transition to a more sustainable way of working.
Useful resources
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This guide by Cornerstone Climate explains complex scientific and legal terminology related to climate change, supporting and laying the foundations for confident, climate-conscious lawyering.
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Legal Sustainability Alliance (LSA)
The LSA informs, equips and empowers law firms to take effective action on the climate and nature crises at home, at work and through their practice.
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The Law and Climate Atlas maps the intersections between climate change and many fields of law, providing concise outlines of how different legal areas are influencing and being influenced by climate change.
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The Grantham Institute is Imperial College London's hub for climate change and the environment, bringing together world-leading research, education and innovation to drive effective action on the climate and nature crises.
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E3G is an independent climate change think tank aiming to translate climate politics, economics and policies into action.
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The SME Climate Hub aims to mainstream climate action for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), or companies with under 500 employees, and enable them to build resilient businesses for the future.
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The Net Zero Lawyers Alliance helps commercial law firms, lawyers and the law to accelerate the transition to net zero.