At Morr & Co, we recognise the significant environmental impact traditionally associated with the legal industry, particularly the substantial paper waste generated through documentation.
As part of our ongoing efforts to reduce our environmental footprint and champion sustainability, we are proud to announce our commitment to the Greener Litigation Pledge.
Our journey towards environmental consciousness began with our “Less Paper” initiative, where many of our teams have already adopted digital alternatives to minimise paper usage.
By reducing our reliance on paper, we contribute to conserving natural resources and reducing deforestation, aligning with our corporate social responsibility goals.
By embracing eco-friendly practices in our daily operations, we not only uphold our commitment to sustainability but also attract clients and colleagues who share our values.
An environmentally conscious approach in litigation sets a positive example within our community and the legal industry, demonstrating that efficiency and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Many of our team members already inform parties involved in litigation that we use electronic documents unless hard copy documents are specifically requested or required.
With tools like SharePoint, BundleDocs, and the adoption of remote hearings, we have made significant strides towards a greener practice. The next step is to formalise this commitment and share it with others.
To that end, we are consulting with our team members to commit formally to the following actions:
- Reducing Environmental Footprint: We will take steps to minimise the environmental impact and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of our dispute resolution practices, including court and other dispute resolution proceedings.
- Engaging with Courts and Fora: We will support changes to rules, procedures and practices to reduce the environmental impact of dispute resolution proceedings.
- Promoting Practical Steps: We will actively promote practical measures in litigation to reduce the environmental footprint, including:
- Corresponding electronically unless hard copies are expressly required, while being mindful of the carbon footprint of electronic communication.
- Limiting the printing of hard copy bundles and other documents.
- Promoting the use of electronic bundles for court hearings and liaising with opposing firms and the Court to facilitate this.
- Using public transport, walking, or cycling for court journeys where feasible.
- Considering the use of video-link for witness testimonies and cooperating with opposing firms and the Court to implement this.
- Assessing the appropriateness of remote hearings and suggesting this to the Court and other parties when suitable.
- Avoiding unnecessary travel related to disputes.
- Committing to renewable energy sources wherever possible.
- Using suppliers and service providers who are dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint.
- Encouraging Participation: We will notify clients and other parties involved in disputes of our support for the Greener Litigation Pledge and encourage their participation.
By committing to these practices, Morr & Co reaffirms our dedication to sustainability and sets a benchmark for eco-friendly practices in the legal industry.
We look forward to continuing our efforts to reduce our environmental impact and promote a greener future for all.