Going Green
In July 2007, Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi L.L.P. made a formal commitment to reduce its ecological footprint, rethink its use of natural resources, and roll-out an innovative and comprehensive sustainability plan.
We began by switching our Minneapolis office to 100% wind-generated electricity, becoming the first Midwest firm
(and the largest
firm at the time) to do so, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The firm has also been
recognized by the ABA for switching all of our offices to 30% post-consumer recycled printer paper and for committing to recycling at least 90% of our discarded office paper.
“Going green is more than just good business,” states Martin R. Lueck, Chairman of the Executive Board of the firm. “It is part of our longstanding commitment to give back to our communities and lead by example.”
We estimate that our green energy efforts have reduced carbon emissions by 4,044,000 pounds per year.* That carbon reduction is equivalent to:
- Removing 4,782 passenger vehicles from the road -- over nine cars for each of the firm's Minneapolis employees;
- Eliminating 5,335 round-trip commercial airline flights between Minneapolis and Washington, D.C.; or
- Saving 2,963,731 gallons of gasoline or 60,722 barrels of oil.
These and other firm environmental initiatives are designed and implemented by the firm’s “Going Green” committee, which is composed of more than two dozen attorneys and staff firm-wide.
We have also launched a comprehensive education initiative, including distinguished guest lecturers and events, monthly electronic publications, and an internal database to inform all firm members about sustainable practices. Finally, we have partnered with local organizations to effect environmental change. For example, in Los Angeles, firm members recycle old suits and ties as part of the local “Law Suits” initiative, while in Minneapolis, firm members may opt into a paycheck-contribution program benefiting the Minnesota Environmental Fund.
For more information on our “Going Green Initiative,” check out our Going Green Start-Up Kit, complete with helpful tips and lessons learned. For press inquiries, contact Kathy Gross Schoen.
Related Links