Beyond the profits: Emma Portelli Bonnici & Martina Caruana on a new era of legal practice

Emma and Martina, founders of PB&C, have adopted a multidimensional approach to sustainability that goes beyond environmental considerations. As a trauma-informed law firm, they are deeply engaged with the complex interplay between legal advocacy, environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and social justice. This approach allows them to align with contemporary global movements as well as actively shape a future where legal practices contribute significantly to sustainable development across all spectrums.

“We strategically integrate digital solutions to address environmental sustainability, while also fostering a workplace culture rooted in diversity, equity and inclusion,” they explain. In fact, their efforts extend beyond the office, as they engage in “dialogues and partnerships that bridge the gap between legal expertise and societal needs.”

Highlighting their collaboration with ‘Red is the New Green’ – an organisation in India – they describe how this partnership exemplifies a multifaceted approach to sustainability that transcends environmental aspects. “Red is the New Green addresses critical social issues, specifically targeting menstrual stigma and economic inequality.

“Their initiatives focus on increasing awareness around menstrual health, providing access to sustainable menstrual products and challenging deeply rooted cultural taboos. The work is pivotal in promoting gender equality, empowering women and girls through education and access to resources, and fostering community engagement around these often-neglected topics.”

Last year, PB&C also had the opportunity to engage with the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH) at the Paris Peace Forum. “In Ukraine, ALIPH’s work has been vital in safeguarding historical sites, artworks and other culturally significant assets. This mission resonates deeply with our comprehensive approach to sustainability, which extends beyond environmental considerations to encompass the preservation of cultural heritage as a crucial element of global sustainability.”

Anticipating future trends, Emma and Martina foresee a broadening scope of sustainability, that emphasises the integration of social dimensions, notably mental health and emotional intelligence. “It’s a future all businesses will need to be aware of and this is a good time to get started,” they say.

This feature was first carried on the 2024 edition of the annual print publication MaltaCEOs, the sister brand to MaltaCEOs.mt, both produced by Content House Group.