Litigation and legal accountability

This blog from the Institute of Directors explores climate risk and in particular examines the recent case brought against oil major Shell and what this could mean for directors.

In this briefing, the Commonwealth Climate and Law Initiative outline the key findings of the March 2024 legal opinion - ‘Nature-related risks and directors’ duties under the law of England and Wales’, and actions directors can take.

The Climate Change Committee explains a legal duty to act on climate change and The Climate Change Act 2008.

Chapter Zero partnered with Freshfields and the Centre for Climate Engagement in 2023 to explore key climate-related legal questions with non-executive directors from across the UK, especially in the context of transition planning. Below is a summary of the first session, which focused on legacy business and risks.

Understanding the impact of climate change and addressing it is a fiduciary responsibility for NEDs, says Chapter Zero Fellow Laurel Powers-Freeling. So, they must own it.

The FCA is expected to publish its policy statement on Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) for wealth, fund and asset managers in Q4 2023. Michael Johnson and Daniel Barry of KPMG UK offer five proactive steps for firms to consider.

Chapter Zero and White & Case held a session for non-executive directors (NEDs) in May 2023 offering practical advice and insights on the key legal duties and obligations of NEDs in relation to climate change. Here are the key takeaways.

This influential report presents an overview of climate litigation, highlighting recent developments and future trends. The report is widely read and cited by civil society organisations, policymakers, the legal community, judges, financiers, scholars and media all around the world.

This report, by Chapter Zero, the Centre for Climate Engagement, and Freshfields, highlights not only what non-executive directors need to know about climate law and regulation from a governance perspective, but importantly how to use this knowledge to become pioneers in the net zero transition.