IUCN works on strengthening the biodiversity business case on several fronts.
The ongoing international study of The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB), in which IUCN is playing a central role, is critical for generating the knowledge needed to enhance our understanding of what greening the economy involves. A recently released report of the TEEB study, tailored for policy makers, revealed how the costs of biodiversity degradation are routinely underestimated. It also highlighted how conserving natural assets can help reduce the vulnerability of societies while supporting their economic development.
IUCN also helps to identify innovative opportunities, approaches and potential new sources of financing for biodiversity conservation. Through both on-site pilot project as well as global-level policy dialogues, it generates significant experience in the use of tools such as payments for ecosystem services (PES), certification, and offsets. Opportunities are being pursued in a range of ecosystems including forests, wetlands and mountains.
