ESG: Here to stay or gone tomorrow?

In a year marked by political upheaval, economic uncertainty, and regulatory divergence, the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) agenda is under more scrutiny than ever. In this timely and thought-provoking episode, A&O Shearman partners Matthew Townsend and Jochem Spaans cut through the noise to explore whether ESG is facing a temporary backlash—or a fundamental transformation. 

From the U.S. policy reversals under President Trump to Europe’s recalibration of its climate ambitions, Townsend and Spaans offer expert insight into the forces reshaping ESG globally. They examine why major asset managers are pulling out of climate alliances, the implications of record outflows from ESG-labelled funds, and the rise of ESG-related litigation. What does this mean for corporate boards, investors, and compliance leaders? Is ESG still a strategic imperative—or is it becoming a reputational risk? 

This episode challenges listeners to consider: 

Will ESG still be a boardroom priority in 2040, or will it fade into the background of standard business practice? 

How can companies navigate diverging regulatory regimes across the U.S. and Europe? 

Is robust governance now the most critical pillar of ESG success? 

Meet the Experts 

Matthew Townsend, Partner at A&O Shearman, is Co-Head of the firm’s Environmental and Climate Law Group and a founding member of its Global ESG Group. With nearly 30 years of experience, he is widely recognised as one of Europe’s leading regulatory compliance lawyers, advising global clients on sustainability, climate transition, and ESG litigation. 

Jochem Spaans, Partner at A&O Shearman based in Amsterdam, brings over two decades of expertise in environmental and public law. He advises multinational clients on ESG compliance, climate transition projects, and complex permitting and litigation matters across Europe, with deep knowledge of EU Green Deal regulations and supply chain due diligence. 

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• Sustainability and ESG in financial services – A comprehensive overview of regulatory developments in the UK and EU. [www.aoshearman.com] 
• Sustainability disclosures – opening Pandora’s box? – A critical look at the challenges of ESG disclosure frameworks and greenwashing risks. [www.aoshearman.com]