Posted by The Law School
3 June 2026Here are the details of the Gowling WLG Student ESG Essay Competition 2026.
Now in its fifth year, the competition invites university students and graduates — from both law and non-law backgrounds — to engage with a topical ESG question. This year’s essay question asks:
“To what extent are ESG standards and regulations becoming more fragmented and how should lawyers support their clients in responding to this shift?”.
The competition offers an excellent opportunity for students to explore the evolving ESG regulatory landscape and demonstrate their analytical thinking on issues that matter to clients across the public, private, and third sectors.
The winner will receive a week’s paid internship (with accommodation if required) in our London office, working alongside our team of expert lawyers on a variety of ESG matters. During the internship, the winner will meet clients, undertake research, draft advice, and gain first-hand experience of what life as a lawyer at Gowling WLG is like. We will also host an Open Day in our London office for top-placed entrants, giving them the chance to meet lawyers who advise on ESG issues, as well as our trainee solicitors and Early Talent team. In addition, every applicant will be invited to a virtual open event to hear more about the firm and receive application tips.
Essays should be no more than 750 words (excluding references) and must be submitted in PDF format to ESGEssay@uk.gowlingwlg.com by 6pm on Friday 18th September 2026. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Further details are in the flyer below: