Support for the business valuation of nature

On 08.04.2011 the World Business Council for Sustainable ­Development (WBCSD) released the Guide to Corporate ­Ecosystem Valuation (CEV^*), an innovative framework designed to enhance business understanding of the benefits and value of ecosystem services like fresh water, food, fiber and natural hazard protection. This framework, which is the first of its kind, enables companies to consider the actual benefits and value of the ecosystem services they depend on and impact, giving them new information and insights to include in business planning and financial analysis. This will support improved business decision-making by creating more alignment between the financial, ecological and societal objectives of companies. “Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation are continuing to escalate, thereby putting business at risk, but if managed properly, they can be transformed into new opportunities,” said Björn Stigson, President of the WBCSD. “CEV allows business to fully recognize and value ecosystems and the services they deliver. I encourage all businesses, large and small, to use this guide and integrate ecosystem values in their decision-making,” added Stigson.