WWF Nedbank Green Trust on finding innovative ways to fund conservation

Conservation efforts have long been underfunded, with researchers estimating that close to $80 billion is needed annually to effectively protect our natural resources. However, raising this amount of money and ensuring it is used accountably presents a significant challenge. Augustine Morkel, the Manager of WWF Nedbank Green Trust, shed light on how their organization has been pioneering innovative solutions to address this pressing issue. With 30 years of experience under their belt, WWF Nedbank Green Trust has successfully raised $300 million through the Netbank Affinity Banking program. This program involves Netbank making donations when customers transact, and WWF leveraging its expertise to develop strategic conservation initiatives. By focusing on systemic interventions, WWF Nedbank Green Trust aims to maximize the impact of their funding, ensuring that every dollar invested results in significant positive change. One of the key points raised by Augustine Morkel is the importance of challenging applicants to thoroughly think through their conservation projects. Rather than simply providing funding, WWF Nedbank Green Trust requires project executives to demonstrate a comprehensive plan that includes a diverse set of partners. For example, in the case of protecting rhinoceros populations in South Africa, collaboration with landowners, law enforcement agencies, veterinary services, government departments, and local communities is essential. By fostering partnerships and developing robust plans for change, WWF Nedbank Green Trust ensures that their investments lead to sustainable conservation outcomes. Another critical aspect highlighted by Morkel is the success metric used by WWF Nedbank Green Trust. Rather than solely focusing on the immediate impact of their funding, the organization measures success by the ability of projects to attract additional funding and support. By seeking to catalyze further investment in conservation initiatives, WWF Nedbank Green Trust aims to build long-term sustainability and scale up the impact of their efforts. This approach not only maximizes the resources available for conservation but also empowers local conservation leaders to develop the capacity needed to drive meaningful change on the ground. In a landscape where conservation funding is often insufficient, WWF Nedbank Green Trust's model stands out as a beacon of hope. By prioritizing collaboration, strategic planning, and scalability, the organization has been able to unlock significant resources for conservation efforts. As Augustine Morkel eloquently puts it, 'Our goal is not just to fund projects, but to fund the future of conservation. We want to empower conservation leaders to create lasting change that reverberates beyond our initial investment. This is the true legacy we strive to leave for generations to come.' With their dedication to innovative solutions and long-term impact, WWF Nedbank Green Trust is setting a new standard for conservation funding worldwide.