The ‘nature positive’ approach to environmental protection offers several expected benefits that align with global sustainability goals. Here are the key advantages:
1. Biodiversity Enhancement
- The nature positive approach aims to increase the health, abundance, diversity, and resilience of species and ecosystems. By focusing on measurable gains, it seeks to halt biodiversity loss and promote recovery, ensuring that ecosystems can thrive and support various life forms[1][2].
2. Long-term Ecological Sustainability
- This approach emphasizes the need for sustainable practices that integrate environmental considerations into economic development. By prioritizing ecological health, it helps maintain the balance of natural systems, which are crucial for food security, water supply, and overall human well-being[1][2].
3. Alignment with Global Frameworks
- The nature positive initiative aligns with international agreements such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which sets ambitious targets for biodiversity recovery by 2030. This alignment facilitates global cooperation and shared responsibility in addressing environmental challenges[2][5].
4. Economic Opportunities
- Transitioning to a nature positive economy can create new economic opportunities through nature-based solutions and restoration projects. This includes the establishment of markets for biodiversity credits and conservation payments, encouraging investment in sustainable practices that benefit both nature and local communities[3][6].
5. Community Engagement and Indigenous Rights
- The approach fosters greater involvement of local communities and Indigenous peoples in conservation efforts. By integrating traditional knowledge and practices into decision-making processes, it enhances the effectiveness of conservation strategies while respecting cultural heritage[3][5].
6. Improved Regulatory Frameworks
- Implementing a nature positive strategy often involves reforming existing environmental laws to establish clearer standards and accountability measures. This includes creating independent regulatory bodies to oversee compliance, which can lead to more effective enforcement of environmental protections[4][5].
7. Resilience to Climate Change
- By restoring ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity, the nature positive approach contributes to greater resilience against climate change impacts. Healthy ecosystems can better withstand environmental stresses, thereby protecting communities from climate-related disasters[1][6].
Conclusion
Adopting a nature positive approach presents a holistic strategy for environmental protection that not only addresses immediate ecological concerns but also promotes long-term sustainability, economic growth, and social equity. By focusing on measurable outcomes and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, this approach aims to create a balanced relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Sources
[1] What is nature positive? – ICMM https://nature.icmm.com/working-for-nature/articles/what-is-nature-positive
[2] Nature Positive – A Global Goal for Nature https://www.naturepositive.org
[3] Australian Budget 2024-25 – Key Insights for Nature Conservation … https://www.anthesisgroup.com/au/insights/key-budget-insights-nature-positive-plan/
[4] Five trends shaping environmental regulatory reform in 2024 https://www.corrs.com.au/insights/five-trends-shaping-environmental-regulatory-reform-in-2024
[5] Federal environmental law reform: What you need to know in 2023 – KWM https://www.kwm.com/au/en/insights/latest-thinking/federal-environmental-law-reform-what-you-need-to-know-in-2023.html
[6] Expanding Nature-Positive Economies – Conservation International https://www.conservation.org/priorities/expanding-nature-positive-economies
[7] ‘Nature positive’ within reach – 2024 the year for long-awaited national environmental law reforms – Environmental Defenders Office https://www.edo.org.au/2024/02/29/nature-positive-within-reach-2024-the-year-for-long-awaited-national-environmental-law-reforms/
[8] The Maddocks View: Nature Positive Plan: better for the environment https://www.maddocks.com.au/insights/the-maddocks-view-nature-positive-plan-better-for-the-environment-better-for-business
