Cuatrecasas launches ESG unit

This new unit will support all the firm’s practice areas, enabling Cuatrecasas to provide more efficient advice on Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance issues

pjimage 2021 07 21T091900.313Cuatrecasas has launched a new ESG unit to carry out research and debate, and support all the firm’s practice areas regarding Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance issues. With the launch of this unit, Cuatrecasas opens up a space for the creation of legal knowledge aimed at providing a better service to the firm’s clients in all areas.

The unit, managed by Elisabeth de Nadal (pictured) will also contribute to a more structured handling of the firm’s internal ESG-related commitments. The new ESG director specialises in human rights, international relations, global challenges and their connection with the new obligations for companies concerning ESG issues.

Jorge Badía, managing partner of Cuatrecasas, said: “Cuatrecasas is assuming an active role in the provision of advice to companies in relation to their new responsibilities because it believes in the transforming role of rule of law. We are witnessing an accelerated transformation of the relations between society and business activity. Companies are taking on new commitments to tackle global problems such as climate emergency and social justice, and Cuatrecasas wants to contribute to this situation by providing all its knowledge.”

Regarding the scope of corporate ESG responsibilities, Elisabeth de Nadal highlights their cross-sectoral nature: “These responsibilities affect all economic sectors and all of our practice areas, ranging from transactions to Litigation and Tax liabilities. The European Union is leading the transition from a framework of regulations to be met on a voluntary basis and accountability under a mandatory framework, which extends to the supply chain beyond Europe. The new ESG responsibilities affect our service: new roles are being designed for companies, eliminating the traditional divides between public and private, and creating new conduct standards for the private sector. Our services must accompany this transformation process, with all our practice areas contributing value and security, and a comprehensive vision.”

A spoksperson for the firm said: “Regarding the incorporation of ESG criteria in its own activity, the priority for Cuatrecasas in the social area is to strive for gender equality and diversity on its teams, and to continue building a solid pro bono practice that contributes to rule of law and to access to justice. Regarding the environment, Cuatrecasas is committed to sustainable mobility and travel measures for its employees and to the efficiency of its office buildings. Lastly, professional conduct and ethics, and the prevention of corruption are essential pillars of the firm’s good governance, together with transparency and the participation of its teams in managing its activity.

Michael Heron

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