SNG has a proficient ESG practice and we competently advise clients across sectors in connection with a diverse range of ESG services ranging from managing evolving regulatory requirements including expectations of the Indian regulators on BRSR to creation of ESG frameworks and policy related matters, compliance with UN sustainable development goals as well as establishing robust governance mechanisms.
SNG regularly handholds clients in the areas of sustainable finance and investment opportunities, energy related matters including green energy and renewables. We also have a dedicated team which advises on channeling Corporate Social Responsibility funds as well as the formation and regulation of not-for-profit entities formed under the Surety Act, the Public Charitable Trusts Act, Section 8 of Indian Companies Act amongst others.
Key areas of focus for the firm’s ESG practice include:
- Environmental Practices: We assist our clients in complying with environmental laws and regulations and supporting sustainable business practices.
- Corporate Social Responsibility: Drawing from our strong employment practice, we advise clients on issues concerning labour rights, supply chain management, human resources due diligence, community engagement, and philanthropic initiatives. This also involves advising clients on issues concerning gender equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Corporate Governance: We provide guidance on corporate governance frameworks, board structures, shareholder rights, and executive compensation. The firm also advises on regulatory compliances, risk management, and internal control mechanisms.
- ESG Legal Due Diligence: ESG Legal Due Diligence is becoming extremely commonplace in dealmaking and there is certainly a value add in identifying the risks and upsides relating to sustainability at an early stage in the deal making process. It is pertinent to mention that SNG has developed an online assessment tool to aid entities in the creation and generation of a baseline ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) assessment or report. This tool analyses various aspects of legal compliance related to ESG, tailoring the assessment to the specific industry and sector of the given entity. The assessment is basis a questionnaire developed by us on the Indian laws. The analysis can be used for SME lending or initial due diligence. This platform can be used by lenders, private equity funds and AIFs to do an audit on the borrower entities and target entities.
- Gap analysis: Suggest corrective steps basis the ESG Due Diligence and drafting ESG policies in line with the sustainability objectives and practices of an organization.
- Sustainability Reporting: We assist clients in preparing sustainability reports and disclosures, ensuring accurate and transparent reporting of ESG-related information to stakeholders, and complying with relevant reporting frameworks. Blending with our robust corporate practice, we also conduct assessments of ESG risks and opportunities during mergers and acquisitions, investments, and other business transactions. This involves identifying potential legal, regulatory, and reputational issues related to ESG factors.
With a view to provide a holistic and sustainable solution to challenges faced by corporates in the ESG sector, SNG has collaborated with an external consultant to cover certain ESG related aspects which although outside of legal purview are extremely essential when it comes to implementation of an organization’s ESG plan.
SNG has also initiated certain early steps with a view to introduce the principles of ESG at a firm level. SNG is extremely active in inculcating a culture of sustainability at the workplace and is conscious of its environmental impact. The firm is a signatory to the Green Impact Group, an initiative by The Grey Matter, focusing on environmental sustainability.
