Through the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), the protection of nature, biodiversity, and ecosystems has achieved a new political status. With targets to raise international financial flows from developed countries to at least EUR 28 billion (USD 30 billion) per year, companies and financial institutions are expected to increase their positive contribution to global nature and biodiversity through assessment, monitoring, and disclosure of the impact and risks of their operations, portfolios and value chains on nature. EU laws and regulations will also affect companies’ and financial institutions’ commitments to biodiversity, from regulations on nature restoration, sustainable financing, deforestation and forest degradation, to directives on corporate sustainability, due diligence, and taxonomy. Along with The Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures’ recommendations and guidelines, these regulations seek to dismantle existing barriers to mobilising finance for biodiversity.

Strengthening voluntary efforts and investments

The Danish government has established a ‘Biodiversity Partnership’ between business organisations, the financial sector, research institutions, trade unions, think tanks, NGOs, and public authorities. It seeks to strengthen the voluntary efforts and investments of the private sector to reduce their negative biodiversity impact and protect nature. The aim is to identify what it takes to engage companies within the biodiversity agenda and make recommendations to companies, the government, and research institutions by mid-2024.

Nature protection and restoration

Improving protection of existing and threatened nature alongside restoration is critical for combatting both biodiversity loss and climate change. The Danish Nature Fund is an independent private foundation working to ensure better space for animals and plants. Throughout Denmark, it buys up land to protect and restore nature, whilst also creating areas for public use. All purchases are made through voluntary agreements with private landowners.

Financing the fight against deforestation Denmark works to aid the fight against deforestation. EUR 47 million (USD 49 million) is expected to be mobilised in 2024 as part of an overall forest and nature effort of more than EUR 134 million (USD 142 million) from 2024-2027. Support will primarily focus on exposed forest and wooded areas under increased pressure due to deforestation and forest degradation. The program seeks to contribute to climate adaptation, protection of biodiversity, reduction of CO2 emissions, and social and economic development for local communities, including indigenous people.