ESG in the automotive industry

The area of ESG has also become increasingly relevant for the automotive industry in recent years, not least thanks to various new regulations from the European Union. Our law firm has a strong focus on all issues relating to ESG and sustainability and advises companies holistically on compliance with and implementation of relevant regulations.

Our Green Trade team is particularly dedicated to due diligence obligations in the supply chain, which are stipulated by legal acts such as the LkSG, the EU Supply Chain Directive CSDDD, the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation or the EU Forced Labour Regulation (FLR). Of particular relevance to the automotive sector in this context is the EU Deforestation Regulation EUDRwhich provides for due diligence obligations in relation to certain raw materials and products, including rubber and leather. The new EU Battery Regulation, which also contains due diligence regulations in addition to provisions on the labelling and conformity assessment of batteries, is also extremely important.

We also have proven expertise in sustainability reporting in accordance with the CSRD. Our Green Transformation team can answer your legal questions relating to the energy transition and the carbon border adjustment mechanism(CBAM). Finally, our sustainability portfolio also includes expert advice and representation on disputes relating to environmental advertising claims (so-called "green claims"). We always keep an eye on current developments, such as the reform of the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation.

Our main areas of expertise

Advice on due diligence obligations in the supply chain, including the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG), EU Supply Chain Directive (CSDDD), Deforestation-Free Supply Chain (EUDR) or Battery Regulation

Support with the implementation of due diligence obligations in the company, e.g. by drafting relevant documents (organisational manual, certificates of appointment, declarations, reports), drafting supply contracts, workshops/training or opinions on individual legal issues

Representation in administrative and court proceedings

Assistance with information procedures of the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) and other competent authorities

Green transformation, including advice on topics such as the energy transition, circular economy requirements (end-of-life vehicles) and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)