Financial institutions have an important role to play in tackling nature loss and ensuring financial activities support rather than degrade ecosystem functionality.
A report from AXA and the WWF France calls for comprehensive and accurate data on nature-related impacts and dependencies that supports investment in natural capital and nature restoration, and helps investors align portfolios with planetary boundaries.
While financial institutions face increasing exposure to nature risk, there are also promising investment opportunities to address rising societal demand for nature conservation.
Key recommendations for governments and financial institutions include:
establishment of a Task Force on Nature Impact Disclosures to promote open cross-sector and cross-border collaboration between investors and policymakers
inclusion of material biodiversity considerations in ESG criteria and rating methodologies by non-financial rating agencies
creation of an investment framework for analyzing biodiversity risk and engaging businesses, especially the most damaging sectors
public engagement through initiatives that highlight financial products that support nature
prioritisation and integration of nature protection and restoration in all decision-making