“Law Firms Are Prioritizing Sustainable Tech—Here’s Why
Beyond cost and functionality, law firms are increasingly considering sustainability when adopting new technology. With stricter environmental regulations and reporting requirements on the rise, firms that proactively embrace sustainable legal tech will be better equipped to comply with evolving standards—and gain a competitive edge.
More Than Just Compliance
Investing in sustainable technology isn’t only about meeting legal requirements. Law firms that prioritize eco-friendly solutions can strengthen their brand, demonstrate corporate social responsibility, and align with environmentally conscious clients.
A Wolters Kluwer report reveals that 52% of corporate legal departments already request sustainability credentials from law firms as part of their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies. Another 40% plan to do so within the next three years. By adopting sustainable legal technology, firms can better position themselves for business opportunities while reinforcing their commitment to responsible practices.
What Is Sustainable Legal Technology?
Sustainable legal technology includes software and systems designed to minimize energy consumption, reduce waste, and lower carbon footprints. For example, cloud-based litigation software can centralize document storage and collaboration, reducing reliance on energy-intensive local servers and redundant email exchanges.
To transition to more sustainable legal technology, firms should assess their current tech stack and explore opportunities to streamline or consolidate software.
Key Questions to Ask Tech Providers
When evaluating legal technology vendors, firms should inquire about both the efficiency of their software and the provider’s broader sustainability commitments. Essential questions include:
- Do you track and report energy use, waste, and carbon emissions?
- What sustainability measures do your data centers have in place?
- Have you implemented company-wide sustainability policies?
- Do you undergo third-party sustainability assessments, such as EcoVadis or CDP?
- Are you committed to science-based climate targets?
- Does your company follow sustainable procurement practices for its supply chain?
Beware of Greenwashing
Some vendors may exaggerate their environmental impact without providing measurable proof—this is known as “greenwashing.” To avoid misleading claims, law firms should seek verifiable data on energy savings, carbon footprint reduction, and sustainability-driven innovations. If a vendor offers only vague commitments with no supporting evidence, consider it a red flag.
The Future of Legal Tech Is Sustainable
As client expectations shift and regulatory pressures mount, sustainability is becoming a key factor in law firms’ tech decisions. Beyond improving efficiency, adopting eco-friendly legal technology can help firms attract clients, reduce costs, and support global sustainability efforts. By making smarter, greener choices today, firms can future-proof their operations while making a positive environmental impact.”
