What does being a B Corp mean?
B Corp Certification is a mark that demonstrates a business’s commitment to high standards of sustainable performance, accountability and transparency.
From employee happiness to supply chain practices, it is a holistic approach to the world’s biggest social and environmental issues.
We achieved a B Corp score of
84
and will continue to push it higher next time.
The B Corp process
The accreditation process is comprehensive, difficult to achieve and can be revoked or downgraded if standards are not upheld. For us at RDJ, we knew this was a critical next step for us to stay accountable and maintain momentum.
Throughout the process, companies must demonstrate high social and environmental performance as well as make legal commitments to uphold strong corporate governance structures. To gain accreditation, companies must achieve a B Impact Assessment Score of 80 or higher. This is assessed every three years to ensure existing B Corps are continuously improving.
Becoming a B Corp
For companies considering embarking on the B Corp process, here is a glimpse into our story.
2017
RDJ is ISO 27001 certified, ensuring the highest standards of information security for people, processes and client data.
- RDJ opens its first open-plan offices in Dublin to control carbon emissions.
- RDJ joins the 30% Club, a collaborative business-led effort to make real change in Ireland, aiming towards increased female representation in senior management.
2018
2019
RDJ Wellness Committee is formed.
- RDJ introduces a Mental Health First Aid team across the firm's three offices.
- RDJ joins Pro Bono Pledge Ireland, a collaborative initiative highlighting lawyers' shared responsibility to promote access to justice and provide pro bono legal assistance to those in need.
2020
2021
- RDJ achieves the Investors in Diversity Silver Mark from the Irish Centre for Diversity.
- Launch of the RDJ Diversity Scholarship at University College Cork aimed at promoting ethnic diversity in the legal profession.
- RDJ introduces digital platforms like High Q, Egress and Bundledocs allowing secure sharing of information with clients and third parties and eliminating the need for hard-copy documents.
- RDJ moves its headquarters in Cork to Gold LEED certified building at 85 South Mall with the move marking the firm's second office to become completely open-plan.
- RDJ reduces its carbon footprint by 40% over seven years.
- RDJ signs up to the Bar Council Equitable Briefing Policy.
2023
2024
- RDJ is listed in Ibec's Leading in Wellbeing Top 100 Companies 2024.
- RDJ is the first law firm to engage in a pilot programme with the Law Society of Ireland to promote mental health and well-being within law firms.
- Launch of RDJ Diversity Scholarship at University of Galway.
The Five Impact Areas
The B Impact Assessment evaluates a company’s practices and outputs in five key areas.
Governance
RDJ ensures robust governance through a dedicated risk committee, ISO27001 Certification for information security and Q9000 for risk and quality management. Our active ESG team upholds the highest standards of employee training for AML, anti-bribery and corruption obligations.
Workers
RDJ fosters a positive work environment with diversity and inclusion initiatives, wellness programmes, flexible work practices and a “One Team” attitude. Our Wellness Committee also plans and implements mental and physical health initiatives for all employees.
Customers
RDJ adds value to clients by prioritising data privacy, corporate governance and ethical practices. We offer regulatory and legal advice for clients navigating ESG requirements, such as mandatory CSRD and SFDR reporting, and advise on sustainable finance including Green Loans and Sustainability Link Loans.
Environment
RDJ is on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2024. We have reduced our carbon footprint by 40% over seven years, focusing on electricity, consumables, waste and travel. We are also committed to sustainable office practices and digital solutions to drive further environmental improvements.
Community
RDJ actively supports local communities through various activities and charity work. We participate in the Pro Bono Pledge Ireland, offering free legal assistance to those in need. We host charitable events such as the RDJ Santa Cycle which has raised over €175,000 for charities including Cappagh Kids and Straight Ahead.
"As a verified B Corp, we hope that this accreditation proves to our clients, partners and community that we are serious about making a lasting positive impact through our work. For us, this is just the first step in our ongoing commitment to sustainable environmental and social change.
– Tom Noonan, COO
