Nefco’s pioneering biodiversity pilot programme to test and develop nature-based solutions with companies

Nefco – the Nordic Green Bank is in the process of starting its first Biodiversity Pilot Programme. The purpose of the two-year programme is to test and develop suitable biodiversity solutions in collaboration with companies to achieve additional positive impacts for nature.

According to the UN Environment Programme report ‘State of Finance for Nature’ released in 2021, investments in nature-based solutions need to triple by 2030, if the world is to meet the climate change, biodiversity, and land degradation targets. The global report calls for closing a USD 4.1 trillion financing gap in nature-based solutions.

“Financial institutions are in a key position to prevent biodiversity decline and conserve and restore nature through their activities. As a pioneer in green financing, we want to set an example to other financial institutions that are still considering their nature-positive impact strategies,” says Trond Moe, Managing Director of Nefco.

Nefco’s Biodiversity Pilot Programme, which is planned to be launched in the autumn of 2022, is open to existing Nefco client companies in the Nordic countries. The companies will be selected during the autumn, and the programme activities will be tailored according to their size and needs.

“Our goal is to inspire even more companies and project owners to think in terms of nature-based solutions and contribute to knowledge transfer and learning. The participating companies will gain experience in biodiversity protection, develop a biodiversity management plan and take concrete steps to tackle biodiversity loss. It is a great opportunity for these companies,” says Katariina Vartiainen, Senior Manager, Environment and Sustainability, Nefco.

The Biodiversity Pilot Programme will be steered by Nefco and facilitated by AFRY, an international engineering, design, and advisory service company, which was selected as the consultant for the project after an open procurement.