In recent years, the corporate world has made significant progress in addressing climate change with the SBTi Science Based Targets initiative and GHG protocol for emission calculation. However, regarding nature and biodiversity, progress has been slower due to the complexity of the topic and the lack of mature guidance on the subject.  

The complexity of measuring and addressing biodiversity impacts has left many organizations hesitant to set meaningful targets but look no further! Use the Science Based Targets for Nature (SBTN) framework for a practical and science-driven framework, guidance and set of tools designed to guide companies in protecting and restoring nature. 

Why nature targets matter 

Biodiversity loss is advancing at an alarming rate, threatening ecosystems that fuel global economies, health, and well-being. The extinction rate is 100-1000 times higher than in pre-human times, with up to a million species threatened at this time. Half of global GDP is estimated to depend on nature. 196 countries agreed in 2022 to halt biodiversity loss, which will be visible in future regulation e.g., CSDDD. 
 

The SBTN defines nature in three interconnected dimensions 

The SBTN defines nature in three interconnected dimensions. First, it encompasses non-human entities and their interaction with non-living entities and processes, emphasizing the importance of ecosystems, species, and their relationships with elements like water, air, and soil. Second, it highlights human binding interactions with nature, focusing on the ways humans depend on and interact with natural systems, showcasing the reciprocal relationship between people and the environment. Lastly, it addresses critical ecosystem services provided by nature, such as air pollution mitigation, climate regulation, and maintaining carbon cycles, which are essential for sustaining life and economic systems. 

Change of mindset 

Unlike emissions, which are straightforward to measure, biodiversity impacts are context-specific and multifaceted. Yet, ignoring biodiversity risks jeopardizes the resilience of business operations and supply chains. When setting targets for nature, companies must change their approach and mindset from the ones used to address climate impacts. 

From global to local - While we have one climate and shared goals, nature is context-specific and to set meaningful targets and assessment of impacts, we need to understand the nature and impact in the context of the locations in which we operate. 

From simplified to diversity embracing - Climate change can be made sensible by simplification. For example, the Green House Gas (GHG) metaphor has made it even to regulation. Nature, and especially biodiversity, rarely makes sense this way. Only by looking at local ecosystems and species can we understand local ecosystem pressures, extinction threats, and the impacts of this on other species and nature services on which our businesses rely. 

From operating with the whole to prioritization – While GHG calculation and climate target setting are done for the entire value chain, some prioritization and scoping are required to set meaningful targets for nature. To understand the location-specific needs for action with a scientific basis, companies need to start with the business units and locations where the most urgent action is required. 

What is the SBTN Framework 

The SBTN framework provides a clear pathway for businesses to understand, measure, and reduce their impact on nature. Inspired by the success of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for climate, it offers companies the guidance and set of tools to: 

• Assess business activities’ material pressures on nature 

• Identify which commodities have high impact on nature 

• Quantify pressures based on activity or measuring to identify most pressure creating activities 

• Assess the state of surrounding nature in activity locations to identify the most fragile locations. 

• Rank locations which require most urgent action for which to set the targets 

• Set land, freshwater, and, in the future, ocean targets. 

• Next year, guidance will be provided on the steps after setting targets to act and track progress. 

One of the SBTN’s key strengths is its ability to simplify the daunting task of addressing biodiversity. By combining science, robust data, and actionable guidance, it demystifies the process for companies to identify pressures on nature and take action.  

Why companies should act now 

Targets for Climate have become a hygiene factor. Companies that embrace the SBTN framework not only future proof their operations but also demonstrate leadership in sustainability.  The SBTN framework is more than a tool—it is an opportunity for companies to close the biodiversity gap in their sustainability strategies. By committing to science-based targets for nature, businesses can help reverse biodiversity loss and ensure a thriving future for people and the planet. 

We depend on nature, and the current state has immense pressure on nature. Let’s change the course of action.