Thematic investing
Biodiversity
The Biodiversity strategy invests in companies that support the responsible use of natural resources, reduce biodiversity threats and restore ecosystems back to health.
% of species endangered by deforestation and over-exploitation of land and oceans
USD trillion, economic value that is linked to nature
USD trillion, combined market cap of today’s investable solutions
Why invest in biodiversity?
Biodiversity, the sum of life in all its forms and across all its habitats, is on the decline worldwide. Deforestation, pollution, and over-fishing are major contributors to biodiversity and account for nearly 75% of species loss. Scientists warn that the loss of such rich diversity is weakening the planet’s ecosystems which may irreparably alter life on Earth.
And it’s not just nature that’s threatened – more than half of global GDP (USD 58 trillion) is dependent on abundant natural resources. So, putting nature at risk jeopardizes our economic growth and well-being. This critical interdependence between economy and environment is driving unprecedented international action to halt biodiversity loss.
The strategy
The Biodiversity Equities strategy invests in companies responsibly using nature’s resources to produce vital goods and services as well as those enabling loss reduction and nature restoration more broadly. Their head start gives them a competitive edge from tightening regulatory regimes, consumer shifts toward sustainable products, and government financing incentives.
More specifically, the strategy focuses on companies sustainably producing agricultural and aquacultural products (food and non-food) and their suppliers. Examples include fisheries and marine farms as well as forestry companies producing certified timber, biomass and resins for industrial use. Further downstream, investments include consumer goods companies that are responsibly sourcing raw materials and inputs for products such as deforestation-free palm oil, soy, and paper.
The strategy also invests in companies active in water purification and treatment as well as wastewater management and recycling. Environmental services which help clean up hazardous contaminants (such as PFAS) as well as redevelop and restore land and watersheds are also in focus.
Biodiversity equities is investing financial capital to help secure sustainable returns from natural capital.
