Businesses Face Extinction Over Nature Loss

Businesses globally are at risk of extinction if they do not prioritize the protection and restoration of the natural world. A comprehensive report, approved by 150 governments, outlines pathways for companies to transition from environmentally damaging practices to nature-restoring ones.

Scientists emphasize that all businesses rely on essential, free services provided by nature, such as clean water and fertile soil. The loss of biodiversity is identified as a significant threat to business operations, yet current incentives often make it more profitable to degrade nature than to preserve it.

Engaging with nature protection has become a critical necessity for many businesses. Initiatives like Steart Marshes in Somerset showcase collaborative management between farmers and conservationists, supporting both wildlife and agriculture. This approach integrates cattle grazing for habitat creation with producing high-quality beef, demonstrating a shift towards sustainable practices.

Furthermore, restoring natural environments offers tangible benefits to local communities. Engineered flood banks at Steart Marshes provide vital protection against rising waters for nearby villages, while wetlands help absorb carbon and reduce pollution, illustrating a dual benefit for both ecological health and human resilience.