Why Investing in Biodiversity is Essential for People and Planet

Biodiversity is the foundation of life on Earth, providing essential services such as clean air, water purification, carbon storage, and food security. Yet, it is disappearing at an alarming rate. More than one million species are at risk of extinction, with habitat destruction, climate change, and human activity driving this crisis.

This year’s World Wildlife Day (3 March 2025) focuses on the theme: "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet."

This theme is a powerful reminder that biodiversity is not just an environmental concern – it is an economic and social imperative. Over 50% of the world’s GDP relies on nature, and industries such as agriculture, fisheries, pharmaceuticals, and tourism depend on healthy ecosystems. Despite this, the world is investing far too little in protecting its natural resources.

The Biodiversity Funding Gap

Conservation efforts require significant financial support, yet current funding falls short:

• $824 billion per year is needed to effectively conserve and restore biodiversity.
• Only $143 billion is currently being invested annually – leaving a massive shortfall.
• Unsustainable economic practices continue to exploit natural resources without reinvesting in their recovery.

To address this funding gap, governments, businesses, and financial institutions are exploring new ways to finance biodiversity conservation. Emerging financial models such as Wildlife Conservation Bonds, Debt-for-Nature Swaps, and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) are shifting conservation from an underfunded obligation to a viable economic investment.

While large-scale global funding is crucial, businesses and industries must also prioritise biodiversity investment at an operational level. This is where companies like Interwaste are stepping up to make a difference.

Interwaste’s Commitment to Investing in Biodiversity

At Interwaste, we believe that business and biodiversity are not separate concerns – they are deeply interconnected. Our commitment to sustainability is embedded in our operations, ensuring that biodiversity conservation is not just a corporate responsibility but a business priority.

How We Invest in People

• Biodiversity Education & Awareness– Investing in people means empowering them with knowledge. Through structured training programs, toolbox talks, and internal communications, we ensure that every Interwaste employee understands the value of biodiversity and how they can contribute to its protection.
• Biodiversity Champions Program– Our dedicated Biodiversity Champions serve as ambassadors, sharing knowledge and engaging employees in meaningful conservation efforts. By leading initiatives like Bat Conservation Toolbox Talks, these champions help bridge the gap between corporate sustainability goals and on-the-ground action.

How We Invest in the Planet

• Developing Biodiversity Hotspots– Interwaste has transformed parts of its operational sites into biodiversity-rich environments. At Germiston Hub, we have established a Biodiversity Enhancement Zone that restores habitat, supports pollinators, and promotes ecosystem recovery.
• Restoring Wetland Ecosystems– Wetlands are among the most valuable ecosystems on the planet, yet they are being destroyed at an alarming rate. Through our Klinkerstene Wetland Rehabilitation Project, we are protecting and enhancing critical wetland habitats that support diverse wildlife, filter water, and store carbon.
• Providing Safe Habitats for Wildlife– From installing bat boxes to creating pollinator-friendly plantings, we actively integrate biodiversity conservation into our infrastructure. These initiatives not only protect species but also contribute to broader ecosystem health, ensuring that nature can flourish alongside our operations.
• Sustainable Waste Management Practices– True biodiversity investment means aligning business operations with conservation goals. Interwaste’s approach to circular economy principles ensures that waste management and environmental preservation go hand in hand. By reducing landfill dependency, promoting recycling, and recovering valuable materials, we minimise ecological disruption while maximising sustainability.

The Future of Conservation: Making Biodiversity a Financial Priority

For too long, conservation has been seen as a cost rather than an investment. This mindset must change.

Businesses, financial institutions, and governments must work together to close the biodiversity funding gap by integrating nature-positive investments into their strategies.

The shift is already happening:

• Wildlife Conservation Bonds are providing financial incentives for species protection.
• Debt-for-Nature Swaps are helping nations restructure debt while funding conservation.
• Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) are compensating landowners and businesses for maintaining biodiversity.

Interwaste is committed to leading by example, demonstrating how businesses can make real investments in biodiversity – through people, education, and tangible conservation projects.

Biodiversity loss is not a distant threat – it is happening now. It affects global economies, local communities, and future generations. The question is no longer whether we can afford to invest in biodiversity – it is whether we can afford not to.

By investing in nature today, we secure a thriving planet for tomorrow.