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The State of Nature Metrics: A Key Step Toward a Nature-Positive Future

Biodiversity loss and environmental degradation pose significant threats to global economic stability, human well-being, and climate resilience. The urgency to address these challenges has led to the establishment of the Nature Positive Global Goal, which aims to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030. However, measuring progress towards this goal remains a major hurdle due to the lack of standardized metrics. The Need for Standardized Nature Metrics Currently, businesses, governments, and environmental organizations rely on a multitude of metrics to assess the state of nature. The absence of a consistent, unified approach makes it difficult to track progress and ensure accountability. To address this gap, the Nature Positive Initiative (NPI) has been working to create a standardized framework for measuring nature-positive outcomes. Introducing the State of Nature (SON) Metrics The newly developed State of Nature (SON) metrics are designed to provide clarity and consistency in evaluating conservation and restoration efforts. These metrics aim to: The development of these standardized metrics is critical for ensuring that organizations worldwide can effectively measure their contributions to a more sustainable future. Key Components of the State of Nature Metrics The draft State of Nature Metrics, set for piloting in 2025, primarily focus on terrestrial ecosystems. They are structured around three core indicators: These indicators provide a structured, science-based approach to measuring nature’s health, helping organizations make data-driven decisions that support biodiversity restoration. Piloting and Future Development The piloting phase in 2025 will assess the effectiveness of the SON metrics across different environmental and social contexts. The goal is to refine the framework and integrate it into globally recognized sustainability standards such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). While the terrestrial metrics are ready for initial testing, further development is needed for freshwater and marine ecosystems, as well as for the integration of traditional knowledge and local ecological insights. Key challenges such as data accessibility, affordability, and cross-industry applicability will be addressed during this phase. Engaging Stakeholders for a Nature-Positive Future The Nature Positive Initiative has already received extensive feedback from over 700 stakeholders across 15 consultation events, ensuring the framework reflects diverse perspectives. As the piloting phase unfolds, businesses, financial institutions, and policymakers must actively participate in refining these tools to ensure they are scalable, practical, and effective. The introduction of the State of Nature Metrics marks a significant milestone in the global effort to reverse biodiversity loss. By fostering consensus, accountability, and measurable progress, these metrics will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable, nature-positive world. Organizations worldwide are encouraged to engage in the piloting process and contribute to the collective mission of safeguarding our planet’s ecosystems for future generations. For further insights, visit: This article was written by Marc Tristant from the Green Initiative Team. Related Articles

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Green Initiative Showcases Machu Picchu as a Model for Carbon Neutral and Regenerative Tourism at COP16

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During the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16), Green Initiative presented the case of Machu Picchu as a model for a Carbon Neutral and Regenerative Tourism Destination. COP16 concluded in Cali after 12 days of intense discussions. Known as “The People’s COP,” the summit was divided into a blue zone for official negotiations and a green zone focusing on civil society participation. According to the Colombian government, the green zone attracted nearly a million visitors, with around 40,000 attending various academic activities. In the blue zone, where negotiations took place, parallel events were also organized in the pavilions of different countries and entities. Among these was the Peru Pavilion, which hosted a series of prominent events, including one titled “Machu Picchu: Carbon-Neutral and Regenerative Tourism Destination.” This session showcased the climate and nature-positive initiatives underway in Machu Picchu, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and restoring ecosystems as part of its tourism management. The panel featured representatives from organizations such as the National Service of State-Protected Natural Areas (SERNANP), AJE Group, Tetra Pak, and Latam Airlines. Panelists emphasized the importance of public-private sector collaboration for the success of projects like Machu Picchu. They recognized the leadership of Green Initiative as a key advisor in the region’s transition to decarbonization and regenerative tourism. COP16 was a platform for dialogue and reflection and marked significant milestones in its final plenary session. Among the most notable were creating a subsidiary body for Article 8J to support Indigenous peoples and local communities, the acknowledgment of Afro-descendant peoples as biodiversity guardians, and the Cali Fund, a global mechanism for the equitable distribution of benefits derived from genetic information. Additionally, collaboration between the Biodiversity and Climate Change agendas was promoted, in preparation for COP29 on Climate Change in Azerbaijan and the upcoming COP30 in Brazil. Colombia also took the opportunity to launch the world’s first biodiversity bonds during COP16, an initiative aimed at involving the private sector in biological diversity preservation. Banco Davivienda, with an investment of up to 50 million dollars from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), will channel these resources into projects with positive biodiversity impacts. Similarly, BBVA Colombia issued another bond, subscribed to by IDB Invest and IFC in two tranches to finance projects with positive biodiversity impacts. Written by Musye Lucen from the Green Initiative team. Related articles:

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Recap – Webinar on Regenerative Tourism: The Key Dimension for Ecological Sustainability and Business Competitiveness

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On August 28, 2024, the Green Initiative hosted an exceptional international webinar titled “Regenerative Tourism: The New Dimension for Ecological Sustainability and Long-Term Business Competitiveness.” The event brought together a diverse group of experts, industry professionals, and global stakeholders to discuss the transformative potential of regenerative tourism. The webinar provided attendees with invaluable insights into how regenerative tourism practices are not only reshaping the future of travel but also contributing to global sustainability goals. Frédéric Perron-Welch, Head of Climate and Nature Policy at Green Initiative, kicked off the webinar with a warm welcome. “Regenerative tourism is not just about sustainability; it’s about restoring and enhancing the ecosystems and communities that make tourism possible,” said Perron-Welch, emphasizing the core philosophy of the event. Keynote Presentations Marcos Vaena – Senior Executive at IFC Marcos Vaena provided a comprehensive overview of the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Environmental and Social Performance Standards, illustrating how they align with the principles of regenerative tourism. He highlighted the synergies between green finance and regenerative practices, particularly in emerging markets. “In today’s world, going beyond sustainability is crucial for destinations that want to differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace. Regenerative tourism offers a blueprint for long-term success by ensuring that tourism projects do not adversely impact the natural assets that these countries possess,” Vaena stated. He also discussed how IFC’s performance standards, which include guidelines on labor conditions, community health, and biodiversity conservation, are critical in boosting competitiveness in the tourism sector. Virginia Fernandez-Trapa – Programme Coordinator, UN World Tourism Organization Virginia Fernandez-Trapa presented a compelling discussion on the “Regenerate Pathway” of The Glasgow Declaration. She emphasized that concept challenges conventional tourism practices by focusing on not only preserving but actively restoring ecosystems. “The regenerate pathway challenges us to go beyond conventional practices, focusing on restoring ecosystems and supporting nature’s ability to draw down carbon”, said Fernandez-Trapa She highlighted how the regenerate pathway is central to the goals of the Glasgow Declaration and emphasized the need for a balanced approach that incorporates environmental, social, and economic pillars of sustainable development. “At present and in alignment with the Glasgow Declaration pathways for us is clear, that regenerative can certainly play a role in accelerating the pace of change towards the needed balance, so that we can ultimately ensure sustainable development of our societies, and we need to integrate those regenerative arteries and policies and actions”, she added. Tenisha Brown-Williams – Senior Tourism Specialist, Inter-American Development Bank Tenisha Brown-Williams captivated the audience with compelling case studies from Barbados and Brazil, showcasing how regenerative tourism can lead to transformative change. She shared the story of Walker’s Reserve in Barbados, a former quarry transformed into a thriving ecotourism destination, and the IDB‘s Salvador program in Brazil, which empowers Afro-Brazilian communities through regenerative tourism. “I want to bring us all to one common point of agreement. We can all agree that in spite of the debates around sustainable turism and regenerative…. I think we could agree that given the climate crisis and other pressing vulnerabilities the global tourism industry must embrace in a new approach, so it is imperative for all stakeholders within the tourism value chain to adopt, what is called a transformative mindset, and this shift really involves moving beyond purely economic objectives to embrace the holistic reflections, which I have highlighted… On some rhetorical questions, we need to ponder: it’s tourism a benefit to the people at the destination or to the tourists?, said Brown-Williams. “I want to propose that a mind cannot be transformed without visible proof of change and tangible evidence of its impact. So the IDB’S Tourism sector framework has a line of action which deals with original knowledge agenda for the tourism sector that covers important issues for which there is a lack of information. We also need to continue to inspire by sharing examples which strengthen community based tourism enterprises such as the examples shared in Belize, the Bahamas and Dominica, with elements of regenerative tourism at it’s core”, she added. “I propose that the future of regenerative tourism hinges on our collective recognition that it is a mindset shift, brought to life through strategic policies and programs, and fully realized through robust partnerships across the entire tourism value chain. It is in this unified understanding and collaborative effort that we will shape a truly regenerated future for the global tourism industry. As we face unprecedented challenges, regenerative tourism offers a path forward that benefits both people and the planet. By fostering inclusive, community-driven initiatives, we can ensure that tourism serves as a powerful tool for positive change and long-term resilience,” she concluded. In closing, Tenisha Brown-Williams emphasized the critical importance of regenerative tourism as a transformative force within the industry. She called on all stakeholders to embrace this new approach, which prioritizes not only environmental sustainability but also social equity and cultural preservation. Inspiring Case Studies Gabriel Meseth – Project Manager, Inkaterra Hotels Gabriel Meseth presented Inkaterra’s pioneering efforts in ecotourism and sustainable development in Peru, focusing on their initiatives in the Amazon rainforest and the Machu Picchu cloud forest. He highlighted the successful restoration of these areas and the innovative waste management strategies that have made Machu Picchu the first carbon-neutral UNESCO Designated Site. “Inkaterra’s approach to regenerative tourism is deeply rooted in scientific research and community engagement. By restoring ecosystems and empowering local communities, we are not only preserving Peru’s natural heritage but also setting new standards for sustainable tourism worldwide,” Meseth explained. He also discussed the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these ambitious goals, citing the collaboration between Inkaterra, the Green Initiative, and local communities as a model for other regions. André Fortunato – Program Manager, CEPA (Customized Educational Programs Abroad) André Fortunato shared CEPA’s innovative approach to regenerative tourism through their study abroad programs in Costa Rica and Guatemala. He emphasized the importance of service learning and climate-positive actions in educating students and supporting local communities. “Through our programs, students not only learn about sustainability but actively contribute

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Mobilizing Financial Resources for Biodiversity Conservation: Challenges and Imperatives

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Biodiversity and ecosystem health are the foundation for sustainable development, playing a pivotal role in securing our common future. Recognizing the importance of financing conservation efforts, Agenda 2030 established Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15.a to mobilize substantial financial resources to preserve and sustain biodiversity and ecosystems. However, the journey toward achieving this target has complexities and challenges. A significant one is the mobilization and alignment of financing – not only sourcing funds, but also ensuring that they are properly directed towards initiatives that protect and enhance biodiversity. SDG 15.a provides the financial underpinning for the broader aspiration of protecting life on earth embodied in SDG 15. Despite some progress, a significant funding gap remains for biodiversity conservation. Estimated global biodiversity finance currently stands between $78–91 billion annually, falling significantly short of the projected need of $700 billion USD per year identified in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Moreover, funding for biodiversity conservation competes with subsidies and support directed at activities that harm ecosystems, including industrial agriculture, energy, forestry, and mining. Despite the gradual increase in international public funding for biodiversity, there are disparities between countries. While bilateral official development assistance (ODA) has risen sharply, domestic funding in several countries has stagnated or declined, exacerbating the global funding gap. This underlines the urgent need for a strategic reassessment and recalibration of financial priorities by governments and underscores the need to increase the use and ambition of biodiversity-relevant economic instruments to effectively achieve conservation goals. A critical gap in Target 15.a is the absence of specific quantitative goals, unlike the target of $100 billion USD agreed upon at the 2009 climate change negotiations. This absence creates ambiguity, leading to concerns about the potential double counting of resources allocated to other objectives and tensions arising from differing interpretations of financial mobilization efforts. These challenges demand resolution as the global community begins to work on achieving the 2030 goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal GBF. Addressing the shortfall in financial commitments, fostering coherence in funding strategies, and delineating a universally accepted quantitative target for resource mobilization are imperative steps. Addressing the gap in SDG 15.a, Target 19 of the GBF aims for the mobilization of $200 billion annually for biodiversity from all sources, including $30 billion through international finance. Collaborative efforts among countries, multilateral institutions, private actors and civil society will be needed to bridge the gap between aspirations and reality. Creating innovative financing mechanisms, providing incentives for sustainable practices, and redirecting subsidies away from harmful activities and towards financial incentives for practices that benefit biodiversity will encourage more sustainable behavior. In conclusion, while the commitment to mobilize financial resources for biodiversity conservation and sustainability is clear, realizing this ambition requires collective and concerted action. It requires a paradigm shift in financial priorities, a recalibration of resource allocation strategies, and a shared commitment, including from the private sector, to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity for present and future generations. Navigating Financial Pathways for Biodiversity Preservation Securing the right funding is of paramount importance in the quest to protect our planet’s biodiversity. Our advisory services specialize in navigating these complexities and bridging the gap between aspiration and reality. By leveraging collective efforts and innovative mechanisms, we work toward aligning financial priorities and directing resources to achieve sustainability. Contact us to embark on this critical journey together, paving the way to achieving the SDGs and fostering a healthier, more vibrant planet for present and future generations. Written by Frédéric Perron-Welch, Head of Climate and Nature Policy from the Green Initiative Team. Image credits: Inkaterra Hotels Related articles

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