Rebranding conservation to attract financing

Global warming and biodiversity loss are two of the most pressing issues facing the world today. Without addressing these challenges, the consequences for the world economy could be severe. To explore how to make conservation more appealing to financiers and investors, as well as present a compelling business case for conservation, CNBC Africa sat down with Candice Stevens, Chair of the Sustainable Finance Coalition, at the Business of Conservation conference in Kigali. In the interview, Stevens emphasized the need to integrate our financial decisions with the value we place on nature. She highlighted the importance of understanding the risks associated with the destruction of biodiversity and the impact on consumer supply chains. By aligning financial decisions with sustainable practices, businesses can make more informed and responsible choices. Stevens suggested that tailoring financial solutions to conservation is key. She likened the process to selecting the right key from a bunch to unlock opportunities that benefit both people and the planet. By focusing on nature-based returns and social impact, businesses can develop solutions that have economic value while promoting sustainability. One striking revelation that Stevens shared was the stark disparity in spending between conservation efforts and consumer products. She pointed out that more money is invested in carbonated soft drinks annually than in protecting the planet, despite the critical role that nature plays in supporting global GDP. Stevens stressed the need for a significant increase in financing for conservation to mitigate environmental damage and safeguard vital assets. To drive substantial shifts towards biodiversity and wildlife protection, Stevens identified several essential factors. These include bridging the gap in language between different sectors, establishing a finance for nature ecosystem to encourage collaboration, and redefining the understanding of risk and return to prioritize long-term benefits and sustainability. When making a business case for conservation, Stevens highlighted the emerging opportunities in new financial instruments such as biotrade and impact-related bonds. Entrepreneurs and investors who embrace innovation and recognize the value of nature-based assets can pioneer these new markets and capitalize on their growth potential. By leveraging traditional financial mechanisms in the conservation space and exploring tax incentives tailored for conservation, individuals can contribute to a sustainable future while unlocking significant financial opportunities. Overall, the interview with Candice Stevens shed light on the importance of rebranding conservation to attract financing and make a compelling business case for investing in nature. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, integrating sustainable practices into financial decision-making will be crucial to safeguarding the planet and ensuring long-term economic prosperity.