Over 50% of APAC's economy relies on nature and is vulnerable to nature-related risks

In the Asia Pacific region, nature-related risks like biodiversity loss, pollution, and freshwater scarcity pose financial risks for companies. Research shows 53% of the region's GVA, equivalent to $18 trillion, comes from nature-dependent sectors. AIGCC warns of declines in soil, water, pollination, and climate stability, emphasizing the urgent need for action in countries like Malaysia, Australia, China, and India. To know more, you can click here.

Nature stewardship credits to pilot in 2025

Social Carbon and Natural State aim to introduce the 'nature stewardship credits' methodology by Q3 this year, with pilots set for 2025. The initial design phase includes biodiversity and social aspects, with public consultation post-final draft. Developers will generate nature stewardship credits if project areas are unsuitable for carbon credits, aligning with initiatives like Verra's Verified Carbon Standard and Gold Standard to assess broader biodiversity and social impacts. To learn more, click here.

Two-thirds of biodiversity conservation actions have been effective

A study led by the US-based non-profit Re:wild and published in Science claims that two-thirds of nature conservation actions implemented to date have either boosted biodiversity or slowed its decline. Analyzing 186 studies covering 665 trials spanning a century, the research found that 66% of conservation interventions were effective. Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the study considered various actions such as establishing protected areas, controlling invasive species, managing ecosystems sustainably, and restoring habitats to combat habitat loss. Click here to learn more. 

NA100 launches benchmark with 50 metrics for assessing corporate nature progress

NA100 has released a benchmark with 50 metrics for investors to assess corporate biodiversity progress. These metrics, divided into 17 sub-indicators, align with NA100's investor expectations. The first annual company assessments based on this benchmark will be issued later this year, highlighting key areas for engagement 16 months after NA100's launch at COP15. Click here to know more.

IUCN releases guidelines for monitoring biodiversity in protected areas and OECMs

IUCN WCPA issues guidelines for biodiversity monitoring in PAs and OECMs worldwide, incorporating advanced tools to ensure valid datasets. Emphasizing the need for a recognized monitoring framework, IUCN stresses consistency in decision-making processes. To learn more, you can click here.

Bhutan and the Tiger Conservation Coalition pledge $1 billion for tigers

The Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference concluded today on a high note, marking a historic moment for global conservation efforts. The conference was opened yesterday by Her Majesty The Queen of Bhutan, under whose patronage this effort to mobilize greater support for protecting tigers and tiger landscapes has come to fruition. Bhutan’s government and a group of conservation NGOs have committed to catalyze $1 billion to protect tigers and their habitats over the next decade. Click here to know more.

Restoring Family-owned Forestland Through Carbon Reforestation

The Climate Trust (TCT) funded the planting of 1,222 acres of family-owned forest destroyed by Hurricane Michael in Florida's panhandle. The Hurricane Michael Family Forest Restoration project shows how carbon finance can revitalize land for productive forests. TCT's funding is vital for supporting livelihoods now and in the future. To learn more, you can click here.

CreditNature method receives independent accreditation

CreditNature's ecosystem restoration methodology received accreditation from an independent accounting framework, a "world first." CEO Cain Blythe plans to assess ecosystem changes on landholdings and connect them to nature credits. The method has been applied to over 20,000 hectares in Scotland and England, with potential use on 100,000 hectares. To know more, you can click here.

Financial sector calls on governments to align policies with global biodiversity targets

The Finance for Biodiversity Foundation (FfB) has released recommendations for policymakers to align financial flows with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). FfB's guidelines call for nature assessments for companies, and financial institutions, and increased involvement of central banks. Governments should set boundaries, promote innovation in sectors like food, chemicals, and mining, and encourage private-sector investment in nature restoration and sustainability. Click here to know more.

TBC introduces the Biodiversity Impact Assessment Framework

TBC and WWF Switzerland collaborated on the Biodiversity Impact Assessment Framework (BIAF) to evaluate investment impacts on biodiversity and promote nature-positive outcomes. The BIAF considers both positive and negative impacts across ecosystems and business models, aiding decision-making. Sybille Borner from WWF highlights the need for a clear approach to assessing biodiversity impacts accurately. To know more, you can click here.