At the 2024 London International Disputes Week, experts highlighted the crucial need for proactive management of climate change risks and emerging disputes in major infrastructure projects. The panel, moderated by Jonny Gray from Ankura, focused on the impact of new legislation and sustainability requirements on projects like World Cup stadiums.
Helen Waddell from Pinsent Masons emphasized the benefits and challenges of developing venues for major events, noting the increased scrutiny on climate change impacts. She pointed out that future disputes are likely as climate-related regulations and sustainability requirements become more stringent.
FIFA’s recent guidelines aim to address these concerns by promoting sustainable football infrastructure. However, Waddell warned that with the rise in climate change-related disputes, developers must plan for future regulations and commercial shifts.
Rick Liddell KC from 4 New Square Chambers cautioned against “greenwashing,” citing a Swiss Fairness Commission ruling against FIFA for misleading carbon-neutral claims about the 2022 Qatar World Cup. He stressed the importance of substantiating sustainability claims to avoid potential breaches.
Jason Baston of Miller highlighted the challenges of using new construction materials with limited historical data. He emphasized the need for careful consideration of new technologies and their implications from the design stage.
Matt Finn of Ankura Consulting noted that construction disputes often arise from scope changes, schedule pressures, and technical issues. He urged stakeholders to anticipate potential disputes related to climate change and sustainability when drafting contracts.
Overall, experts advised that managing climate-related risks and incorporating sustainability into infrastructure projects are essential for mitigating future disputes and meeting regulatory expectations.