Core Insights - The article emphasizes the critical role of financial support in biodiversity conservation efforts, particularly in light of the "Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework" which sets a target to protect at least 30% of global marine and terrestrial areas by 2030 [1][2] Financial Institutions and Biodiversity - Financial institutions face challenges in integrating biodiversity-related risks into their internal risk management systems due to a lack of assessment methods and tools [2][3] - The global focus on biodiversity risk management is increasing, with central banks and financial institutions beginning to recognize the importance of identifying and managing these risks [2][3] Economic Impact of Biodiversity - China's economic activities reliant on biodiversity are valued at approximately $9 trillion, accounting for about 65% of the GDP [3] - The loss of biodiversity poses significant risks to financial institutions, potentially increasing costs and impacting financial performance and price stability [3][4] Types of Risks - Biodiversity-related financial risks manifest as physical risks, affecting industries like agriculture and tourism, and transition risks, arising from new government policies aimed at biodiversity protection [4][5] Financial Support Mechanisms - Current financial support for biodiversity conservation in China primarily relies on fiscal funding, with insufficient participation from social capital and financial institutions [6][7] - There is a need for a comprehensive financial product system to meet the substantial funding requirements for national park construction, as existing products are limited [6][7] Recommendations for Improvement - Financial institutions should enhance risk assessment and management for biodiversity-related investments, ensuring that potential impacts on biodiversity are evaluated before project initiation [7] - A collaborative mechanism involving government, enterprises, NGOs, and the public is recommended to improve financial support for biodiversity conservation projects [7]

Core Viewpoint - The urgent need for a comprehensive global action to elevate biodiversity protection to the same strategic significance as decarbonization efforts is emphasized, as biodiversity loss is now a core challenge affecting both the environment and economic development [1][2]. Urgency of Biodiversity - The decline in pollinator populations threatens global food production, with approximately 75% of crops relying on pollination [2]. - Biodiversity loss disrupts soil health, degrades water quality, and leads to local climate instability, which are essential for human development and economic resilience [2]. - Increased interference with natural ecosystems raises the risk of zoonotic disease transmission, linked to environmental degradation and illegal wildlife trade [2]. - The expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, if not managed carefully, may inadvertently harm biodiversity, highlighting the need for coordinated climate and biodiversity goals [2]. Global Recognition and Policy Progress - Biodiversity's role in global stability is gaining political recognition, with initiatives like the TNFD providing frameworks for businesses to assess and disclose nature-related risks [3]. - Despite evolving policies, execution remains slow and lacks systematic funding, necessitating alignment between political will and actionable funding mobilization [3]. Innovative Financial Tools - Innovative financial instruments, such as the "Rhino Bond" by the World Bank, link investment returns to measurable conservation outcomes, showcasing the potential for performance-based ecological financing [4]. - Brazil's initiative to establish the "Tropical Forest Forever Fund" aims to raise $125 billion to incentivize low deforestation rates in rainforest countries, potentially transforming tropical forest conservation financing [4]. Middle East Biodiversity Initiatives - The Middle East is emerging as a region of interest for biodiversity, with Saudi Arabia undertaking desert ecosystem restoration and reintroducing over 7,000 animals [5]. - The UAE is actively protecting key mangrove and marine ecosystems, integrating biodiversity into its broader clean energy and sustainable development agenda [5]. China's Leadership in Biodiversity Financing - China is demonstrating a strong commitment to biodiversity, having issued the world's first biodiversity-themed green bond in 2022, raising 1.8 billion RMB for nature-friendly infrastructure and ecological restoration projects [6]. - The "30×30" target aims for 30% of land and water areas to be protected by 2030, supported by large-scale ecosystem protection initiatives [7]. Filling the Biodiversity Financing Gap - There is an estimated annual financing gap of $700 billion for biodiversity protection, which, while significant, is less than global annual spending on carbonated beverages [8]. - Suggested actions to bridge this gap include reforming harmful subsidies, expanding public and private investment, developing market mechanisms, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and promoting global cooperation [9]. Conclusion - Biodiversity loss is evolving into a severe crisis that transcends national boundaries and poses threats to economic and healthcare systems, as well as ecological resilience [10]. - Nature financing can bridge economic development and environmental protection, fostering a new era where biodiversity conservation drives prosperity [10].