International arbitration has a large carbon footprint, as it is often characterised by the exchange of printed materials and air travel by practitioners to attend hearings (and other events).

Lucy Greenwood (chartered arbitrator and founder of Greenwood Arbitration) understood the impact arbitration has on the environment and the urgent need to promote “greener” practices in the field. Launched in 2019, her “Campaign for Greener Arbitrations” has garnished considerable support within the arbitral community over the last 12 months, as practitioners – who were prevented from travelling in light of COVID-19 restrictions – began to recognise that “virtual” and “paperless” arbitrations were not only feasible, but also cost-effective. As part of the initiative, a Framework and six Protocols are being drafted to provide practitioners (including arbitrators, lawyers and arbitral institutions) with practical guidance as to how to minimize their carbon footprint in a sustainable manner.