Kenneth Markowitz, a veteran practitioner with more than three decades’ experience in environmental law and as an advisor on climate change and sustainability issues to companies, governments and environmental groups, has been named a partner in Akin Gump’s Washington, D.C. office. Mr. Markowitz will co-lead the firm’s climate change group.
Mr. Markowitz previously was a consultant for Akin Gump and has worked with the firm for 14 years. His practice focuses on advising leading domestic and international companies and organizations on a comprehensive range of legal and policy issues in relation to climate change; environmental, social and governance (ESG); and clean energy.
Commenting on the announcement, Akin Gump chairperson Kim Koopersmith stated, “I am thrilled that Ken has joined Akin Gump full-time as a partner. This move resonates particularly during a time when climate change is impacting every sector of the U.S. economy, and ESG has become one of the most pressing issues facing businesses today. Ken’s appointment as a partner is a reflection of his immense contributions to the strength and depth of our team as we continue to help our clients tackle the climate crisis and meet their sustainability and ESG goals.”
Earlier in his career, Mr. Markowitz was the president and founder of Earthpace, a global advisory firm that provides legal and policy strategies for climate markets, emerging technologies and regulatory systems. He also serves on the board of directors—including as past board chair—of Verra, a leading certification body dedicated to promoting climate action and sustainability, which manages the primary greenhouse gas, or GHG, crediting program and registry for the voluntary carbon markets.
“Ken’s experience with both the public and private sectors gives him insight into the strategies necessary to overcome the complex environmental and sustainability challenges our clients are facing,” said David H. Quigley, the head of Akin Gump’s environment and natural resources practice. “He has a strong record of assisting our clients navigate the changing regulatory landscape and anticipate potential compliance and litigation issues associated with climate risk and the growing emphasis on ESG and climate-related disclosure requirements.”
Added Mr. Markowitz, “I joined Akin Gump with the launch of the firm’s climate change practice in 2007. Since then, I have collaborated with my colleagues to build a deep, multidisciplinary team prepared to respond to the pressing sustainability and climate-related issues and policies that continue to dominate global concerns. It’s a great honor to join Akin Gump’s partnership and help grow the firm’s exceptional cross-practice climate change and ESG groups.”