

Current and future generations can continue to benefit from
the Earth’s terrestrial and marine species and natural resources
only if this biodiversity is protected. The cost of environmental
protection—traditionally borne by governments and nongovernment organisations—is high. Yet the cost of not
protecting our biodiversity is far greater in that we risk losing
the means to sustain life. The conservation of our natural
environment and the achievement of sustainable ecosystems
will require greater private sector involvement, a rapid upscaling
of sustainable businesses and green infrastructure, and new
financial arrangements.