Alexander Lee
Principal
HKA Global Ltd
Glasgow, UK
T: +44 (0)7713 985 938
E: alexlee@hka.com
Alexander Lee is an environmental expert with 30 years of experience. He directs the global ESG dispute resolution team at HKA. His team leads across a diversity of ESG issues. He has provided dispute resolution in complex commercial situations, primarily as an expert in contamination, environmental impact and risk assessment. He has extensive experience in high-profile and sensitive cases, including environmental damage and negligence, investor-state dispute, appeals and arbitration. He is chair of the UK National Brownfield Forum, a director of the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists, and a former chair of the Society of Brownfield Risk Assessors.
What do you consider to be your major career achievements?
The opportunity to affect change and self-develop has been important throughout my career. I have been fortunate to have worked across an array of environmental issues, domestically and internationally. I have collaborated with some of the very best international experts. These projects have enabled me to technically grow yet also deliver positive change to our environment. I have learned greater discipline, how to react when things go wrong, and how to stand up and be accountable. I believe in the principles of ‘serve to lead’ and the power of example. Hence, aside from the many successful cases and problem sites, it has been an ability to give back that has been my career achievement. I am a regular chair at conferences, including early career. Occasions where I have had the opportunity to promote environmental or social betterment or grow others have been most memorable.
What strengths and characteristics do you, your team, and your firm strive to demonstrate to clients?
High technical competency is a default expectation. But work must also be independent, uninfluenced by the pressures of litigation. It is important to be objective, and unbiased on matters only within expertise. We consider the material facts, including those which may detract, and are clear when an issue falls beyond our expertise and ask for help. This requires being the fullest and best version of yourself, holding yourself to a higher standard; being straightforward and honest with others, and being prepared to stand up and step up by being courageous when others are holding back. Our message to our clients is: we will do the right thing. We demonstrate authentic leadership based on action, not talk. We expect high standards from our teams, encouraging and rewarding them, best nature as second nature.
Reflecting on your area of expertise, how do you see this sphere of the market shaping up over the coming months? Are any exciting trends or developments on the horizon?
Increasing pressure exists for more accountability, greater regulatory scrutiny and credible environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure, backed by better data alongside calls for a global convergence in consistency. Climate change and associated topics are likely to dominate stakeholder discussions toward responding and adapting. Growing threats to nature and biodiversity will motivate businesses to focus on the impact of their activities. Companies and investors will face an increased risk of litigation related to sustainability inactions, as seen in the rise in climate litigation cases. They may also find it challenging to balance their environmental commitments with the requirement for energy affordability, energy security and shareholder returns. Investment treaties and investorstate disputes will increase as stranded assets arise in the face of changing commitments. Sustainable employment practices may be challenged by recessionary risks in many markets. Yet, new human rights regulations will introduce additional requirements for company supply chain management. There is a volume of legislation coming aimed to prevent adverse human rights impacts in the context of global business.
“Increasing pressure exists for more accountability, greater regulatory scrutiny and credible environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure, backed by better data alongside calls for a global convergence in consistency.”
LeeAlexander Lee HKA Global Ltd
Representing a state within an investment treaty dispute arising from energy transition issues and environmental conflicts (climate impacts and environmental impact assessment).
Government instruction at international arbitration in respect of environmental issues arising during the construction of national sewerage infrastructure.
Expert witness in respect of the loss of hazardous substance in the Middle East leading to aquifer contamination and remediation.
Expert advisory on climate change to inform a national regulator in support of future policy for the next 1000 years.
Expert witness in respect of contamination at a military facility (chemical and radiological).
Expert witness in respect of environmental matters during construction of onshore renewables
Expert support in the delivery of environmental class actions.
