‘Planks are worth more in the short term. But you can also leave a tree standing for better soil, filtered water, and shade’

Marcel Beukenboom and Koos Biesmeijer from Naturalis emphasize the economic value of biodiversity, linking it to corporate performance. They argue that healthy ecosystems contribute significantly to financial stability, as companies rely on natural services like clean water and pollination. The duo highlights the need for financial institutions to consider biodiversity in investment decisions, citing examples like New York's water management. They stress that while short-term gains may favor deforestation, the long-term benefits of preserving nature outweigh immediate profits. The ongoing decline in biodiversity poses risks that financial sectors must address for sustainable growth.