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BSR Insight | Managing Risks and Opportunities of Biodiversity Loss and Ecosystem Degradation

About the Author(s)

Elissa Goldenberg, Associate, Advisory Services

Publication Date

July 20, 2010

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A new study entitled The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) outlines the business risks and opportunities related to biodiversity. It also explores consumers' changing preference for environmentally friendly products; describes new initiatives and tools that enable businesses to measure, value, and report on their ecosystem impacts; and examines new business models that deliver biodiversity benefits.

To take a lead on this issue, the report recommends that companies:

  1. Use existing tools to identify impacts and dependencies on biodiversity and ecosystem services, and work to improve the tools.
  2. Assess the business risks and opportunities associated with these impacts and dependencies.
  3. Develop quantitative targets and performance indicators to measure and report on results.
  4. Look for business opportunities including cost efficiencies, new products, and new markets.
  5. Integrate biodiversity and ecosystem services strategies with broader sustainability efforts such as community engagement.
  6. Work with business, government, NGOs, and civil society to improve policies regarding regulatory reforms and to develop voluntary guidelines.

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    About the Author(s)

    Elissa Goldenberg

    Elissa Goldenberg, Associate, Advisory Services

    With four years of sustainability communications expertise, Elissa works with BSR member companies in a range of sectors—including those in information and communications technology; food, beverage, and agriculture; energy; and consumer products—on various sustainability issues including reporting, stakeholder engagement, and human rights... Read more →

    Topics

    Ecosystem Services, Environment

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