Ipbes report: Nature loss could spell extinction for businesses

An IPBES assessment, approved by 150 governments, warns that biodiversity loss threatens businesses that rely on ecosystem services and sets out how companies can move toward restoring nature.

A major IPBES assessment warns that businesses face serious risks if nature is not protected and restored. The report was prepared with contributions from leading scientists and was approved by 150 governments. It highlights that companies of all kinds depend on free ecosystem services such as clean water and fertile soils, yet most do not report biodiversity impacts. Key findings: - The assessment was developed by IPBES and approved by 150 governments. - Co-authors said businesses can ‘ultimately risk extinction’ alongside species if nature is degraded. - All businesses rely on ecosystem services like water purification and soil fertility. - Less than 1% of publicly reporting companies mention their impacts on biodiversity. - Practical examples such as Steart Marshes show farming and conservation working together, with engineered flood banks protecting villages and wetlands reducing pollution. Summary: The report frames better stewardship of nature as a core challenge for company boards and notes everyday incentives that drive biodiversity loss, including damaging subsidies and unclear measurement practices. Undetermined at this time.