Developments in environmental, social and governance (ESG) related policies, laws, investigations, disputes, reporting requirements and investment strategies can confuse lawyers and non lawyers alike. These commitments include climate action to avert global warming by reducing carbon emissions, and maintaining responsible supply chains, data ethics, diversity, inclusion and wellness. There is increasing discussion within bar associations to be a more climate conscious profession to help implement the many international ESG commitments honestly and equitably. The legal profession is also asked to assess its own advised emissions being the carbon footprint associated with the advice provided to clients due to expectations from different stakeholders. This paper explores the various factors influencing ESG integration, prominent laws, regulatory activity and trends that the modern lawyer should be aware of and offers practical considerations for impact in advisory and transactional work.