Biodiversity and natural capital underpin businesses’ delivery of products and services, as well as creating sustainability for business, people and planet. Businesses are increasingly looking to understand and develop good practice in these potentially complex areas.
In 2021 the UK government produced the Environment Bill, which included significant measures on biodiversity net gain, and there are increasing initiatives from organisations such as Science-Based Targets for Nature and the UK Business and Biodiversity Forum.
Recognising these activities, the IEMA Board has identified the need for a dedicated Policy and Practice Network and Steering Group for biodiversity and natural capital, to support business and members. We are looking for IEMA members who would like to become part of the steering group for the new network. The steering group will be made up of nine volunteer representatives and a chair, and will oversee the development and delivery of policy and practice in biodiversity and natural capital.
The group will aim to drive best practice, innovation and advocacy, guided by the principle of transforming the world to sustainability. It will champion issues relevant to biodiversity and natural capital professionals, help set up a strategy for the network, and create an annual work programme that might include responding to consultations, informative webinars and preparation of guidance material.
This is a unique opportunity to drive the agenda in this area. If you are interested in joining the group, please respond by 10 February 2022 to [email protected] with answers to the following questions (no more than 500 words):
- What role do you believe the Biodiversity and Natural Capital Steering Group can play in supporting professionals in this area?
- What do you believe are the key issues?
- What other relevant skills and knowledge do you have?
- Would you like to be considered to chair the group, and why?
Terms of reference are available on request. IEMA aims to establish a diverse membership for the steering group, both demographically and in terms of technical and soft skills. Member selection will include particular attention to ensuring that it has a diverse make-up.
