Best Sustainability Report

For the firm that has made managing its community and environmental impact an integral part of the way that it does business, whilst adding business value.

2008 WINNER

Antonio Baena of Garrigues with Emma Price-Thomas of Business in the Community

Garrigues produced an excellent entry clearing showing their focus on CSR and how sustainability issues are genuinely penetrating to the core of their operation and ethos. The firm not only examines the usual measurable internal factors, but is also making efforts to monitor and affect the sustainability activities of external shareholders – including alliance partners and clients. Further pressure on landlords, for example, could reduce building energy use substantially.

Garrigues has precisely monitored their environmental impact – including energy use, waste, water and a thorough analysis of staff travel and video conferencing alternatives. Although rapid expansion has marginally increased total energy use, their commitment to real reductions is clear and forceful.

2ND PLACE

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer “on-line only” report has received much positive press and deservedly so. However, it can be a bit difficult to navigate. Measurement details for this year were not as thorough as Garrigues, but they have set good benchmarking targets to further reduce their environmental impact.

The fact that Freshfields is now certified as “carbon neutral” shows good intention, but also indicates strong use of carbon offsetting rather than a concerted shift in thinking which might reduce travel and energy use in future. Everything is in place for Freshfields to move from box-ticking to measurable improvements in next year’s report. This would cement their growing leadership role on sustainability issues.

OTHER SHORTLISTED FIRMS

2008 SPONSOR

Business in the Community - mobilising business for good. We inspire, engage, support and challenge companies on responsible business, working through four areas: Marketplace, Workplace, Environment and Community.

More than 850 companies are Business in the Community members, representing 1 in 5 of the UK private sector workforce alongside a network of global partners.

These members commit to integrating responsible business, sharing experience and taking collaborative action.

This is achieved through campaigns, programmes, awards, benchmarks and publications.

Why? …it’s just good business.