EU launches Friends of Credits for Nature and Biodiversity

The European Commission reaffirmed its commitment to financing biodiversity during its high-level event on Nature Credits, co-hosted by Peru and France at the 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Yerevan, Armenia.

On behalf of the EU, Commissioner Jessika Roswall launched the Friends of Credits for Nature and Biodiversity during an event co-hosted by the EU, France and Peru on Tuesday (27 Oct).   

Nature credits are innovative financing instruments designed to attract investment in protecting, restoring and maintaining nature, while rewarding those who undertake these activities. By making nature-positive actions more visible, credible and investable, they can help mobilise private finance for nature. 

The Friends of Credits for Nature and Biodiversity is an informal, inclusive, government-led initiative designed to build international support for nature credits and strengthen cooperation on biodiversity finance.

In addition to the co-hosts of the side-event, France and Peru, Finland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain, as well as Australia, Botswana, Canada, Chile, Indonesia, Japan and New Zealand were welcomed to the initiative. Other countries from around the world attended the event and expressed interest in joining. Relevant international organisations are also welcome.

“The Friends of Credits for Nature and Biodiversity will provide a platform for governments to cooperate internationally to foster credible investment that protects and preserves nature. This is an opportunity for our businesses and nature: Nature credits will boost biodiversity and preserve habitats while generating revenue for those who work to protect nature and for investors.

We welcome the strong interest from governments across regions to cooperate. Their experience and priorities will be essential in shaping our future work.”