Leading law firm and Baker Tilly network firm Freeths has published its first net-zero transition plan, setting out a clear, science-aligned pathway to achieve net zero across its value chain by 2040. The plan is 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 achieved ISO 14001 certification in 2015, began measuring Scope 1 and 2 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, including its 2040 net-zero target. In 2025, the firm further strengthened its sustainability capability with the appointment of director of responsible business Ben Churchill and sustainability manager Maggie Stewart.
Significant progress is already visible. Since its 2024 baseline year, the firm has reduced overall emissions by 8% and office energy consumption by 15%.
The net-zero transition plan sets out how Freeths will accelerate progress through:
- clear, measurable, science-aligned targets embedded into decision-making
- defined decarbonisation pathways across energy, travel, waste and supply chain
- strengthened governance across 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.”
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.
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