Earthcharter

SBA Case Study: DLA Piper

Friday, 26 February 2010 19:59

LARGE BUSINESS CATEGORY

Company Name: DLA Piper

Contact:
Website: www.dlappiper.com

Number of Employees: 3,500

Certifications/Affiliations: ISO 14001
Year Established:
Industry: Legal Practices

Introduction: DLA Piper became one of the largest legal service providers in the world in 2009 through a merger of unprecedented scope in the legal sector with over 3,500 lawyers in more than 65 offices in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Their clients range from multinational, Global 1000, and Fortune 500 enterprises to emerging companies in developing industry.

Sustainable Practices and Initiatives (Planet)

Technology/Infrastructure: DLA Piper’s Tampa Office has recently moved into a new LEED Certified space. As a result of this project, their partners have won several awards in regard to architectural and interior design. The building was built using sustainable materials such as Volatile Organic Compound paint, Label Plus Certified carpeting with recycled yarn, Green Guard Certified and FSC furniture, Energy Star Appliances, and recycled glass.

Materials and Recycling: In 2007, DLA Pipers was one of the first in the legal field to launch a global sustainability initiative aimed to reduce environmental impact particularly in energy waste, travel, and procurement aspects. They work closely within the supply chain to improve the purchase of sustainable products or services and educate vendors and suppliers who  are required to adhere with DLA Piper’s sustainability practices. They are also committed to reducing wastes globally including paper and plastic as well as other recyclable materials such as photocopier/printer cartridges.

Products/Services: New Perimeter, a nonprofit affiliate of DLA Piper opens new horizons for pro bono efforts in the legal services sector. Lawyer from offices around the world  providing legal support for projects of global concern, including healthcare, hunger, housing, economic development, law reform and human rights. The pro bono services or the volunteer hours do make a major difference in each community worldwide. It helps DLA Piper to develop as lawyers and as well as responsible citizens; they also take in benefits by gaining insights into the current issues law firms facing today.

Economic Impact (Profit)

In each office around the world, DLA Piper dedicates times and legal services to projects related to education, healthcare, housing, hunger, economic development and law reform that vary from local arrangements, benefiting schools and charities in the communities to major initiatives of global concerns.

Community Commitment (People)

External: The Tampa Office was awarded for Outstanding Pro Bono Service by the Hillsborough County Bar Association and the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit’s pro bono program, H.A.V.E. A Heart. They actively participate and contribute to several local charities such as The United Way of Tampa Bay and the Spring of Tampa Bay. Furthermore, DLA Piper Tampa allows its meeting rooms to be used by local non-profit meetings.

Internal: Tampa Office offers benefits such as 401k and profit sharing plan, flexible hours for employees with children which supports work-life balance and healthcare, dental, and vision insurance which provides 80% coverage. In addition, they also offer an Alternative Commuting Incentive Program to those who change or sustain their commuting habits to a more environmental friendly mean such as public transportation, carpooling, or bicycling for at least 60 consecutive days. They also have A Hybrid Vehicle Reimbursement Policy offered to all DLA Piper employees.

Partners/Recognition: As part of the ISO 14001 certification, DLA Piper is required to submit monthly report, outlining their sustainability efforts for recycling and procurement as well as conduct internal audits and external audits in compliance with the ISO 14001 standards.