Navigating the ESG Value Chain: Key Frameworks, Litigation, and Financial Impacts for Corporate Lawyers

As European businesses increasingly focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, the legal landscape is evolving to address these new priorities. This roundtable will delve into the core components of the ESG value chain framework, focusing on the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and the EU Forced Labor Regulation (EUFLR). Understanding these regulations is vital for corporate lawyers advising companies on compliance, risk management, and sustainable business practices, as these frameworks establish mandatory standards and due diligence obligations that affect corporate governance, supply chains, and reporting.

The event will also provide an in-depth presentation of the CSDDD and the CSDDD Navigator, a tool designed to help businesses align with these evolving legal requirements. With ESG litigation on the rise, corporate lawyers need to stay informed on potential risks and strategies for mitigating legal exposure. Discussions will cover recent trends in ESG-related lawsuits, including those related to human rights, environmental obligations, and financial disclosures, emphasizing the importance of proactive compliance and risk assessment to avoid costly legal battles and reputational damage.

Finally, the financial aspects of ESG will be explored, highlighting how ESG factors are increasingly integrated into corporate financial strategies, investment decision-making, and reporting. Understanding the financial implications of ESG is crucial for corporate lawyers who need to advise their clients on regulatory compliance, investor expectations, and long-term value creation. With the EU and global regulatory landscape shifting toward mandatory ESG disclosures and accountability, this event will provide essential insights and tools for lawyers to help their clients navigate this complex terrain effectively.