Pro-Biodiversity Business

Businesses that deliver net positive effects to biodiversity and ecosystems and are economically viable at the same time have been termed "Pro-biodiversity Businesses". Their business model is based on generating money with the conservation or enhancement of biodiversity and ecosystems or payments for ecosystem services.

Six major markets can be distinguished:

Carbon – in the carbon market biodiversity is being protected through the sequestration of carbon in ecosystems. Carbon emission trading is also part of this market.
Water – to ensure a high quality and reliable water supply, major water users are paying for the sustainable management of the watersheds they depend on.
Biodiversity offsets – in this market biodiversity offsets are being realised and traded to balance the effects of activities that lead to a loss of biodiversity.
Certified forest and agricultural products – this market evolves around the trade of certified timber and non-timber products. Because the origin and chain of production of certified products can be checked, biodiversity conserving management practices can be ensured.
Ecotourism - tourism that aims to minimise natural impacts and benefits the local ecosystems and communities depending on it.
Genetic resources/bio-prospection – the use of genetic resources by the pharmaceutical, beauty and health industries.

Key messages

Pro-biodiversity businesses are businesses that are economically viable and deliver net positive effects to biodiversity.
There are six major markets: carbon, water, biodiversity, certified forest products, ecotourism and genetic resources.