TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Peter Dernbach, an American Taiwanese lawyer and partner at Winkler Partners, has spent over 21 years in Taiwan. Driven by a deep commitment to his adopted home, Dernbach has become a vocal advocate for the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, particularly for the government and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Winkler Partners stands out as Taiwan’s only law firm to use 100% green electricity since 2021, achieving carbon neutrality the same year. Dernbach explained that their journey began by setting up a green office, aiming to measure the firm's carbon footprint and using the data to reduce energy consumption more effectively.
By implementing energy-efficient solutions, such as upgrading air conditioning units and light bulbs, Winkler Partners reduced its electricity usage by over 40%, despite frequent business travel for legal services. Additionally, the firm built a rooftop garden, encouraging employees to cultivate their own vegetables, a unique initiative not typically seen in law firms.
"In the early years, we were hesitant to communicate too much about our environmental efforts, as we viewed ourselves primarily as professionals," Dernbach shared. "But we realized that our creative approach to running our business and providing services was a positive reinforcement of who we are."
As more Taiwanese SMEs experience 'carbon anxiety,' Dernbach likened ESG implementation to taking a comprehensive exam for better health. He suggested that business owners could "make better choices for their own health and the health of their business."
Looking ahead, Dernbach emphasized the importance of authenticity and transparency in ESG efforts. “We don't have all the answers and don't know exactly what we're doing, but we're trying to do the best we can. As we learn more, we'll improve," he concluded.
