September 7, 2011

Changing Standards for Environmental Disclosures

Co-sponsored by Jenner & Block LLP and the Environmental Law Institute

For years the Securities and Exchange Commission has faced growing pressure to strengthen its rules regarding corporate disclosure of environmental liabilities. Critics charge that the legally-mandated disclosure framework relied upon by the SEC, based upon the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, no longer is effective in providing full and fair disclosure to investors on topics addressing environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. Groups like Ceres, a coalition of investors and environmental groups focused on addressing sustainability challenges, demand a broader scope of disclosures, including climate change and water scarcity considerations. These developments, and more, mean that companies confront an array of standards for reporting, and face potential pitfalls if their reporting is not accurate and credible. Our expert panel discussed the significant issues raised by these disclosure requirements and the most appropriate strategies for addressing them.

Speakers:
E. Lynn Grayson, Partner, Jenner & Block (Moderator)
Jim Coburn, Senior Manager, Investor Programs, Ceres
Katie Pavlovsky, Principal, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services
Greg Rogers, President, Advanced Environmental Dimensions, LLC.
Elaine Wolff, Partner, Jenner & Block

Materials:
Jim Coburn, powerpoint presentation: "Investor Perspectives: Disclosure of Climate Risks and Opportunities"
Jim Coburn, additional material: "Disclosing Climate Risks & Opportunities in SEC Filings: A Guide for Corporate Executives, Attorneys & Directors" (February 2011)
E. Lynn Grayson, excerpt from Environmental Issues in Business Transactions: "SEC Disclosure Obligations: Increasing Scrutiny on Environmental Liabilities and Climate Change Impacts"
Kathryn Pavlovsky, powerpoint presentation: "Changing Standards for Environmental Disclosures"
Greg Rogers, powerpoint presentation: "A Legal & Market Perspective"
Elaine Wolff, powerpoint presentation: "Changing Standards for Environmental Disclosures"
mp3 recording