Why your company should focus on nature and biodiversity

Ecosystem services have an economic value of 150 billion US dollars, and more than half of the world's gross domestic product depends directly on them. Switzerland is particularly affected by this. From agriculture to the pharmaceutical and tourism industries, many Swiss companies rely directly on natural resources. However, the biodiversity crisis, as the ‘big sister of the climate crisis’, endangers this basis and thus also your business models.

Companies that act now will secure their raw material supply, reduce costs through resource efficiency and strengthen their resilience to climate risks. At the same time, they will meet legal requirements and gain the trust of customers and investors who care about nature and biodiversity. Those who take responsibility now will secure competitive advantages and help to shape a future-proof economy – in Switzerland and worldwide!

Nature and biodiversity: the basis of our economy

Our natural environment provides the basis for healthy, diverse and resilient natural resources and ecosystems – it is essential for human survival, economic stability and our quality of life. Natural ecosystems provide fresh air and clean water, maintain soil fertility and offer protection against flooding and erosion. Biodiversity ensures the long-term stability and resilience of society, as it is essential for our nutrition, industry and economy. Our demand for raw materials is directly dependent on nature. In addition, nature provides space for leisure and recreation and contributes significantly to people's physical, mental and social health.

Every species counts!

Because biodiversity is in crisis. Human activities such as deforestation, urbanisation, climate change, overuse of natural resources, pollution and invasive species are putting a heavy strain on natural ecosystems. Between 1970 and 2020, biodiversity has declined by 73% worldwide, and almost half of the natural ecosystems have already been destroyed. As a result, one million species are now on the verge of extinction.

From the perspective of the World Economic Forum (WEF), natural risks such as biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse or resource scarcity pose the greatest risks worldwide in terms of possible negative impacts over the next ten years. Accordingly, the risks of biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse for companies are high. In particular, as climate change continues to advance, genetic diversity plays a fundamental role in the adaptability of both natural ecosystems and economic production systems. At the end of 2022, the parties to the United Nations adopted the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to contain and counteract the biodiversity crisis by 2030. This agreement provides a global framework for action to protect and restore nature. Concrete guidelines such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Science-Based Targets for Nature (SBTN) are now in place, and many companies worldwide, including in Switzerland, are guided by them.

What you can do as a company

By developing and integrating nature-positive strategies into your business plans, you as a company can tap into new market opportunities and create sustainable added value for all. Start by analysing your direct and indirect impacts on natural ecosystems. Develop targeted measures to reduce negative impacts – for example, by establishing sustainable supply chains, restoring natural habitats or avoiding water pollution. Collaborating with nature conservation organisations and integrating biodiversity goals into your corporate strategy will ensure long-term success. Communicate your progress and rely on regular monitoring to make your impact measurable and credible. Increase transparency and promote collaboration along your supply chain for the protection of nature and biodiversity.

Find out more about Swiss Climate's specific offers – tailored to your needs:

• Nature/biodiversity strategy
• Overview of laws, standards and guidelines for nature and biodiversity
• Analysis of supply chains and their impact on nature/biodiversity
  
• Analysis of business activities incl. supply chain for physical and transitory natural risks
• Support in developing nature-positive business ideas
• Support in reporting, incl. implementing the recommendations of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD)
• Support in setting targets, incl. implementing the Science Based Targets for Nature (SBTN)