Biodiversity, the resources our economic activities depend on

Heleen van den Hombergh is an advisor on agricultural-commodities and nature-based solutions at the IUCN National Committee of the Netherlands. She got involved in organizing this event with PFW and RVO because companies that work abroad or have an impact abroad are key to helping preserve biodiversity, which is the IUCN’s greatest concern.

“Biodiversity forms the foundation of our lives, of the resources we all depend on,” explains Van den Hombergh without any doubt in her voice. It is essential for ecosystem health, but also crucial to combat climate change, ensure human well-being, and for economic activities like agriculture, and the water sector. Biodiversity provides vital services such as clean air and water and pollination, and is key for climate mitigation and adaptation.

However, as we all know, it faces threats from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, over-exploitation, and invasive species. Protecting biodiversity is crucial for sustaining life.

Van den Hombergh works a lot with the sustainable production of agricultural commodities. “Without proper care for nature – protecting, supporting, and restoring it – our productivity and food security are at risk,” she explains, pointing out why preserving biodiversity is also crucial for the stability and yield of agricultural crops.

“Deforestation and loss of vegetation lead to unstable water systems and poor harvests, as has happened with soya in Argentina and the United States.”

Van den Hombergh argues that while promoting conversion-free sustainable agricultural practices in international value chains is vital, we also need to strive for a better balance in our diet, with more plant-based proteins instead of animal proteins.

“The current intensive model does need to change to allow more space for nature and healthy food in the long term. Farmers around the world can be invited to contribute to this transition.”

According to Van den Hombergh, the event is “a unique opportunity for cross-pollination between different sectors: the water sector, the agricultural sector, the financial sector, and transformation thinkers. Participants are offered the chance to look beyond their own field and be inspired by best practices from other sectors.”

An important theme is how biodiversity affects water security and management. She explains that robust nature can help manage water flows, retain water, and prevent sudden shocks such as floods or droughts.

The ‘Room for the River’ programme in the Netherlands has helped prevent flooding by giving rivers more space and restoring natural areas that work like sponges.

The challenge, she acknowledges, is communicating the importance of biodiversity and nature-based solutions. Although there are already many collaborations taking place, the main goal of the event is to “inspire people, show them the latest insights and best practices, and encourage transformative thinking.”