Business and Biodiversity Initiative

Companies and ecosystems are interdependent. Companies not only have an impact on the earth's biodiversity and ecosystems, but they also depend upon these systems in many different ways – be it directly from fresh water, wood, fibre, food or indirectly from flood protection and erosion control.

At the same time, public awareness about biodiversity protection as an important issue is on the rise. This is increasing pressure on political actors and businesses. The business world is increasingly confronted with the issue and your company is under pressure from many sides to take real and meaningful actions. The ‘Biodiversity in Good Company’ Initiative facilitates this process by providing a platform for exchanging information and experiences and offers solutions for action through its Corporate Biodiversity Management Handbook, checklists and best practice examples, developed in cooperation with stakeholders in politics, academia, society and business.

What are the business cases for biodiversity?

Biodiversity management is more than charity: It encompasses a direct link between the conservation of biodiversity and economic success. The ‘business cases for biodiversity’ are an integral part of a business strategy when it comes to protecting biodiversity as well as maximizing economic success. Including biodiversity protection in your company’s strategy pays off by:

• Improving your efficiency – by improving and expanding your environmental management systems and using resources more efficiently;
• Long-term competitiveness – by farsighted adjustment of your products, sustainable methods of production and anticipation of regulations;
• Credible communication and improved image – by taking nature conservation into account in your company's management you will make an observable contribution in the public eye to both community and society;
• Motivated employees – an active environmental policy positively influences the work atmosphere in your company;
• Showing action – by proactively approaching new challenges instead of merely reacting to circumstances.

Membership benefits of the 'Biodiversity in Good Company' Initiative

You are part of a selected group of progressive companies that are improving their sustainability profiles by implementing the Leadership Declaration. You will also benefit from the following advantages and services:

• Exchange of ideas – through regular workshops
• Practical orientation – participation in biodiversity management projects
• Public relations – presentation of member company activity (events, projects, communications)
• Coordination – through the Berlin office
• National and global networking – integration into co-operations with national and international partners from politics, academia and society, such as ministries, the secretariat of the CBD, government agencies or nature conservation associations.