For forward-thinking companies, considering the risks and opportunities posed by the fight against climate change is already a common practice. However, biodiversity loss and ecosystem decline represent equally serious potential losses, both for businesses and life on the planet. Business outcomes will increasingly be linked to the health of the world’s nature.
The economy depends on nature
Currently, more than half of the world’s GDP depends on nature. If ecosystems are disrupted through fires, intensive agriculture, or commercial development, there is a risk of releasing more than 300 gigatons of “irrecoverable carbon” stored in peatlands, wetlands, soils, and oceans.
The release of these reserves would have devastating consequences for the climate and life on Earth. Industries such as agriculture, fashion, food, and beverages would be especially affected, as they depend on ecosystem services like fertile soils, clean water, pollinators, and climate regulation.
The role of companies in defending nature
Companies have the ability to influence their supply chains and sectors. When a large company mobilizes, an entire ecosystem of actors and values follows. Additionally, they have the attention of consumers and can raise awareness among the population towards more sustainable options.
Pressure also comes from new generations: 80% of Generation Z and millennials believe that companies have a moral obligation to protect biodiversity. Investors, for their part, demand that companies demonstrate how they manage financial risk related to nature.
Investing in biodiversity: business security and relevance
Investing in nature today means safeguarding the financial security of companies tomorrow and ensuring a livable future for the next generations. Along with climate action, companies must commit to biodiversity to:
- Protect their supply chains.
- Strengthen their reputation.
- Maintain their social license to operate.
- Remain relevant to increasingly demanding consumers and investors.
Those who manage to work with nature and not against it will know how to manage risks, seize opportunities, and expand in a constantly changing world.
Benefits of businesses that regenerate biodiversity
Economic and operational
- Cost reduction: use of clean technologies and less need for external inputs.
- New revenue: carbon credits, ecotourism, and products derived from the bioeconomy.
- Innovation: development of bioinputs, sustainable materials, and biotechnology.
- Resource security: guarantee of essential raw materials such as water and fertile soils.
Market and reputation
- Image improvement: attraction of conscious consumers and investors.
- Brand strengthening: positive reputation and loyalty with customers and partners.
- Competitive advantage: market differentiation and compliance with emerging regulations.
Social and systemic
- Economic stability: reduction of poverty and prosperity linked to healthy ecosystems.
- Resilience: healthy ecosystems more resistant to droughts and floods.
- Collaboration: alliances with local and indigenous communities, integrating traditional knowledge.
Examples of regenerative business models
- Regenerative agriculture: companies selling products from restored soils and capturing carbon.
- Amazonian bioeconomy: businesses marketing non-timber forest products and ecotourism.
- Green technology: startups developing bioinputs to reduce agrochemicals.
- Supply chain transformation: companies integrating regeneration by supporting local suppliers.
Nature is the foundation of the economy. Restoring ecosystems is not only an ethical responsibility but a profitable business strategy that ensures business viability and community prosperity. Companies that invest in biodiversity gain economic, reputational, and social benefits while contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future.
