Why do we need a Nature Positive Economy?
Our current economic system based on infinite growth is destroying and degrading natural ecosystems which are the basis for our societies and economies. Natural ecosystems provide us with resources such as food, clean air, water, and regulate the climate. This degradation of ecosystems affects society and human health and wellbeing.
It is clear that we can’t continue like this. But alternative economic systems require a fundamental shift away from current practices, which do not adequately account for the impact of business on nature, to new approaches where the value of nature and its contribution to society and the economy are recognised. At the same time, vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected by the climate and biodiversity crises. We need to move towards an economic system that puts nature and people first: a Nature Positive Economy.
In a Nature Positive Economy, ‘’businesses, governments and others, take action at scale to reduce and remove the drivers and pressures fuelling the degradation of nature, and work to actively improve the state of nature and the ecosystem services it provides.’’ In other words: actions that protect and restore nature and biodiversity. Activities related to nature-based solutions (NBS) - and delivered by, for example, nature-based enterprises - have the potential to drive the transition towards a nature positive economy.
Nature-based enterprises place nature at the core of their business and often contribute to the delivery of NBS. They are engaged in economic activity, but are driven by environmental and societal goals.
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The success of such enterprises is of high importance to realise the potential of NBS and contribute to addressing the climate change and biodiversity crises we face. The European Commission Directorate-General for Research & Innovation independent expert report “The vital role of nature-based solutions in a nature positive economy”, contains recommendations for different stakeholder groups, including policymakers on international, EU, and national levels, towards a nature-positive economy.
Two things are key in this transition:
Nature: It must lead to the restoration of nature and biodiversity. We are in a real crisis here, there is no time for greenwashing.
People: It must clearly value communities, culture, and traditions. In many parts of the world, people have lived for centuries in harmony with nature. Their traditions and knowledge is invaluable; particularly in local contexts. Indigenous people's values need to be preserved, and they need to (economically) benefit from NBS interventions.
Are you interested in exploring the potential of a nature positive economy or nature-based enterprises in your city, region or country? We can help you develop a strategy [add link to service 1]! Contact our team to arrange a call.
Read the EC expert report here