9:00 AM GMT

Chair’s introduction and opening remarks 

CHAIR

Nigel Brook

Partner

Clyde & Co 

09:15 AM GMT

OPENING ADDRESS /

KEYNOTE

Regulatory Shifts: Understanding the New Rules of Greenwashing

The policy and regulatory outlook for greenwashing is increasingly stringent. Governments and watchdogs worldwide are intensifying efforts to curb deceptive environmental claims by implementing clearer guidelines, higher transparency requirements, and imposing substantial fines. 

Beyond these surface-level changes, the discussion will delve deeper into the multifaceted legal challenges that arise the complexities of interpreting new regulations, the risks associated with non-compliance, the ethical considerations that legal professionals must navigate. and the evolving compliance frameworks that firms need to adopt to mitigate risks effectively.

SPEAKER

Nigel Brook

Partner

Clyde & Co 

10:00 AM GMT

PRESENTATION

Practical Implications in a Dynamic Regulatory Environment

In an era where regulatory frameworks around greenwashing are in constant flux, the legal profession finds itself grappling with unprecedented challenges and opportunities. The panel discussion will dissect the tangible impact of these changes on legal practice, from compliance to client counseling. regional and global variations in greenwashing regulations, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of local laws and international trends. and current trends as harbingers of future regulatory shifts. 

SPEAKERS 

​Robert Allen

Partner Disputes & Investigations team Simmons & Simmons 

Emily Blower

Managing Associate, Disputes & Investigations team

Simmons & Simmons 

Mark Jephcott, Partner, Competition Team

Simmons & Simmons 

Etienne Kowalski

Partner, Dispute Resolution

Simmons & Simmons

Craig Gilchrist

Supervising Associate - Disputes & Investigations Group

Simmons & Simmons 

11:00 AM GMT

PRESENTATION

Greenwashing:

Drawing the lens out

This session delves into the anatomy of contemporary greenwashing case studies, offering a critical examination of real-world scenarios where misleading environmental claims have come to the fore. From legal battles to public relations crises, the discussion will dissect the strategies, behavioral changes, long term and short tensions plus risk and environmental issue dependencies and dynamics.

SPEAKERS

Illana Adamson

Founder CEO

Be Better Sustainability

11:40 AM GMT

PRESENTATION

Knowing When to Say Yes or No: Client Selection, Reputational Risk and Greenwashing 

The act of client selection has evolved into a high-stakes endeavor, especially context of greenwashing. The session will explore the intricate web of challenges that legal professionals face when onboarding new clients who may be misrepresenting their environmental practices. Such misrepresentations not only expose firms to potential lawsuits but also pose significant risks to their reputation and may result in regulatory penalties. 

The discussion will examine the importance of rigorous due diligence processes designed to verify sustainability claims, assess compliance with evolving green regulations, and ensure transparency in environmental practices.

SPEAKER

Iona Silverman

Partner

London IP & Media

Freeths 

12:30 PM GMT

Networking Lunch

1:30 PM GMT

Litigation as a driver for the greenwashing debate

This panel session examines the relationship between litigation and the evolving policies on greenwashing. We will explore the implications across public law, commercial law, and financial regulations, shedding light on how these domains collectively contribute to the broader evolving discourse on greenwashing. Key areas of discussion will encompass the causes and consequences of greenwashing, critical considerations for legal and business communities, and what lies ahead in terms of regulatory evolution.

SPEAKERS

Sophie Kemp

Partner

Kingsley Napley

James Alleyne

Legal Director

Kingsley Napley

Simon Bishop

Partner

Hausfeld

2:20 PM GMT

PRESENTATION

Investor Due Diligence: Greenwashing as More than a Box Ticking Exercise

Investor due diligence has evolved from a mere compliance requirement to a critical tool for navigating greenwashing. 

This session will examine the multifaceted nature of investor due diligence, emphasizing its role as a comprehensive exercise that goes far beyond just ticking boxes, It will explore why investors must rigorously research a company's environmental claims to assess the veracity of sustainability information, gauge adherence to regulatory standards, and sidestep potential liabilities. 

The discussion will also highlight best practices and methodologies for conducting in-depth due diligence, offering a nuanced understanding of how to mitigate greenwashing risks effectively. 

SPEAKER

Richard Power

Partner

Clyde & Co

3:40 PM GMT

PRESENTATION

Supporting general counsel on the transition to sustainability

This session aims to bring the client perspective into sharp focus, offering invaluable insights as in-house counsel build capabilities, receive practical advice from peers, as well as growing their network. . It will explore the concerns, expectations as business are scrutinized for environmental claims and sustainability initiatives.

SPEAKER

Sophie Kasmi

Knowledge Editor

General Counsel Sustainability Leaders

4:15 PM GMT

PANEL DISCUSSION

Wrap Up Session: What's Next? 

The wrap-up panel session serves as a capstone moment, synthesizing the day's discussions, debates, and insights. This isn't merely a summary; it's a forward-looking dialogue that aims to crystalize the actionable takeaways and set the agenda for future endeavors in combating greenwashing. 

The panel will distill the key points from each session, offering a cohesive narrative that ties together regulatory shifts, fiduciary responsibilities, investor due diligence, and more. The goal is to leave attendees with a clear roadmap for navigating the evolving landscape of greenwashing in the legal sector.

SPEAKERS

Anna Hoffman

Barrister

4 Pump Court 

Stuart Woollard

Managing Partner Organizational Maturity Services LLP 

Tamara Cizeika

Counsel

Allen & Overy

Ewen Cairns

General Counsel

Osprey Charging Network