Big Law Firms Draft Model Climate Laws in Pro Bono Project

More than 20 Big Law firms have signed on to a pro-bono project developing model laws and regulations aimed at helping cities and states fight climate change.

The effort is directed at increasing energy efficiency, reducing carbon spending, and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. The models will establish frameworks for carrying out policy changes like regulations requiring more energy efficient buildings or easier permitting for offshore wind projects.

“Many elected officials realize that there’s intense interest from constituents in acting on climate change, so legislators are looking for very specific things to do,” said Michael Gerrard, a Columbia Law professor ...