Environment and Climate Change

The Rock and Partners has a strong carbon and renewable energy practice and is a market leader in this field. Lawyers in the firm have been involved in advising clients on climate change and global warming issues, from the inception of the first phase of the Kyoto Protocol and the clean development mechanism, issuance of certified emission reduction units and the purchase and sale of carbon credits. With the ratification and coming into force of the Paris Agreement, the opportunities presented for market and non – market mechanisms under Article 6, countries’ obligations to prepare and file their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and net zero emissions commitment amongst others, we realise that it is important for governments, companies, both private and public institutions to devise comprehensive and innovative solutions to respond to the challenges posed by climate change and the legislation and regulations being introduced to combat the scourge. The firm is poised to advise its clients on the legal obligations arising from climate change and the benefits of investing in projects promoting the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, fostering sustainable development as well as environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. Our environment team understands the impact that energy and carbon pricing will have on our clients’ businesses and the importance of incorporating climate change risks into their decision making.

Our expertise covers the whole scope of the carbon industry including advising project developers and sponsors on the regulatory framework for establishing emission reduction projects, the use of market and non – market-based mechanisms, advising governments on legislation and policy formulation to create a secure investment climate for interested investors and representing companies in establishing low carbon emission projects. Clients value our understanding of the ever-changing environmental regulatory landscape and we offer legal advice and counsel in connection with compliance issues, transactions, and disputes concerning environmental requirements and potential environmental damage. Our team advises on the complete range of environmental laws ranging from local remediation programs, to national environmental policy regulations, to international climate change treaties.