Heather Palmer

Heather Palmer is an award-winning environmental and energy partner at Sidley Austin LLP. She serves as a co-leader of the firm's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and climate change practices.12

Professional Expertise

Heather specializes in advising clients on a wide range of ESG issues and related risks, including:

• Disclosure of climate change risks in SEC filings
• Review of ESG-related shareholder proposals
• Development of corporate ESG programs and goals
• Establishment of greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets
• Preparation of sustainability and corporate responsibility reports
• Sustainable sourcing of products and raw materials1

Her practice also focuses on environmental law, where she counsels clients on regulatory requirements, assists in evaluating and negotiating corporate and real estate transactions, supports the development of environmental management systems, and advises on environmental disclosure requirements.1

Industry Experience

Heather has extensive experience in the energy industry, advising clients in sectors such as:

• Oil and gas
• Refining
• Chemicals
• Manufacturing
• Power
• Renewables1

She provides guidance on environmental compliance and the allocation of environmental liabilities in mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, Heather advises clients on carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) matters.1

Recognition and Awards

Heather Palmer has received numerous accolades for her work:

• Named an "Outstanding Business Leader in Law" in the Houston Business Journal's 2024 Women Who Mean Business Awards13
• Recognized in Chambers Crisis & Risk Management for Global-wide Environmental, Social & Governance Risk (2021–2024)1
• Featured in Chambers USA for Texas Environment (2006–2012, 2016–2024) and Texas Environment: Mainly Transactional (2022–2024)1
• Acknowledged in The Legal 500 United States for Energy: Transactional (2015–2016) and Environment: Litigation (2014)1
• Listed in Best Lawyers for Environmental Law (2009–2022)1
• Awarded "Lawyer of the Year" distinction in the 2021 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for Environmental Law1

Clients praise Heather as "a very thoughtful environmental lawyer" and "a true expert" who understands the regulatory complexities of the oil and gas industry while also possessing strategic vision.1