Freeths sets 2040 net zero pathway with release of first firm‑wide transition plan

Leading law firm Freeths has just published its first Net Zero Transition Plan, marking a major step forward in the firm’s long-term commitment to responsible business.

The plan sets out a clear, science-aligned pathway to achieving net zero across the value chain by 2040, underpinned by newly validated near and long-term targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The launch marks a significant milestone in more than a decade of sustainability progress. Freeths first achieved ISO 14001 certification in 2015, began measuring Scope one and two emissions in 2020, and strengthened governance through the creation of its Responsible Business Committee. In 2024, the firm published its first Carbon Reduction Plan and partnered with Planet Mark to develop an SBTi‑aligned roadmap which is now formally approved by SBTi, including its 2040 net zero target. In 2025 the firm added further Sustainability specialism through the recruitment of the Director of Responsible Business Ben Churchill and Sustainability Manager Maggie Stewart.

Significant progress is already visible. Since the baseline year of 2024, the firm has reduced overall emissions by 8% and office energy consumption by 15%.

The Net Zero Transition Plan sets out how the firm will accelerate this trajectory through:

• Clear, measurable and science‑aligned targets embedded into decision‑making
• Defined decarbonisation pathways across energy, travel, waste and supply chain
• Strengthened governance and delivery through the Partnership Board, Executive Board, Responsible Business Committee, Sustainability Champions, Net Zero Action Group and Climate and Sustainability Advisory Group
• A commitment to nature‑positive action alongside carbon reduction

Freeths’ Chief Operating Officer Mark Blakemore said: “Our net zero journey is about focusing on what matters most and where we can make the biggest difference. It’s not just about meeting targets; it’s about embedding sustainability into the way we think, work and grow.”

Sustainability Manager Maggie Stewart added: “This launch reflects the progress we’ve made, but more importantly, it sets out the action we must take next. Achieving net zero will require collaboration across our people, our suppliers and our wider networks. By strengthening our data, governance and supplier engagement, and by supporting colleagues to make sustainable choices day to day, we are building the foundations for long-term, science-aligned change.”

As the plan is implemented, colleagues and stakeholders can expect:

• Updates to core policies and processes, including travel, procurement and supplier engagement
• Ongoing investment in energy efficiency and renewable solutions
• Greater transparency through regular emissions reporting

The plan plays a key role within Freeths’ wider Sustainability Strategy, which focuses on net zero progress, efficient and circular operations, sustainable culture, and collaboration for positive impact.

As part of the launch, Freeths has also extended its partnership with The Tree Council, supporting tree planting, nature recovery and colleague volunteering days across the UK.