TLT and TCLP launch upgrade to tool to combat climate change in the built environment

UK law firm TLT has worked with The Chancery Lane Project (TCLP) to update the pioneering built environment contract solutions tool that helps those in the property industry to navigate climate-aligned drafting. 

The purpose of the tool, which was first introduced to the market in 2023, is to guide users through the whole lifecycle of a built environment project – from pre-planning, through planning, development, and on to occupation or sale of the property. The tool helps drafters find climate clauses and sustainability solutions that can be applied throughout the entire building lifecycle. 

The interactive tool highlights the documents used at each stage, points to TCLP contract clauses and pinpoints other sustainability issues to consider. The updated version now also incorporates references to the latest edition of the Better Buildings Partnership’s Green Lease Toolkit – a tool that aims to support owners’ and occupiers achieve their sustainability ambitions. The 2024 edition of the Green Lease Toolkit is far more comprehensive than the previous version, and, as well as clauses covering key aspects of commercial leases, also includes a Green Lease Essentials section, which will hopefully move the market towards minimum expectations for a green lease.

The updates to the drafting tool will make it even easier for users to navigate drafting that is available in the market.

Alexandra Holsgrove Jones, Partner, Knowledge - ESG at TLT said: “The contract solutions tool launched in 2023 and has proven to be a fantastic resource for professionals in the built environment sector. 

“The Better Buildings Partnership’s Green Lease Toolkit includes detailed new resources, which are instrumental in providing support to owners’ and occupiers’ on their sustainability ambitions. It was vital these updates be included in our contract solution tool. The aim is not for the tools to compete with one another but for both resources to complement and sit alongside each other.” 

Meena Kamath, Head of Built Environment at The Chancery Lane Project said: "The tool is a fantastic way to help lawyers visualise where different climate clauses can fit into the asset life cycle.  It's a great way for both lawyers and non-lawyers alike to familiarise themselves with TCLP and Better Buildings Partnership clauses.  Thank you TLT for building it!"