What are Nature Guardians?
The premise is simple yet transformative. A Nature Guardian, often represented by a trusted individual or committee, acts as a proxy for the natural world within an organization’s governing body. Their role is to advocate for the long-term health and well-being of ecosystems, ensuring that every decision considers the impact on nature, not just short-term economic gains. This isn’t about anthropomorphizing trees or giving animals boardroom seats. It’s about acknowledging the intrinsic value of nature and ensuring its needs are heard and accounted for.
Why is this essential?
The reasons are numerous and compelling:
- Long-term vision: Corporations and communities often prioritize immediate results, overlooking the long-term consequences of their actions on the environment. Nature Guardians bring a long-term perspective, emphasizing the interconnectedness of our well-being with the health of ecosystems.
- Holistic decision-making: By factoring in the impact on air, water, soil, and biodiversity, Nature Guardians encourage a more holistic approach to decision-making. This can lead to solutions that benefit both the organization and the environment, fostering sustainable practices and mitigating potential damage.
- Accountability and transparency: The presence of a Nature Guardian increases transparency and accountability within organizations. Knowing that decisions will be scrutinized through an “environmental lens” encourages responsible practices and reduces the risk of greenwashing.
- Increased innovation: The need to balance human and environmental needs sparks creative solutions. This can lead to the development of new technologies, processes, and business models that benefit both people and the planet.
Beyond the Business World:
While the concept of Nature Guardians has gained traction in companies like Faith in Nature and House of Hackney, its reach extends far beyond the corporate sphere. Community groups, NGOs, and even government bodies can benefit immensely from having a voice for nature at the table. Imagine city councils with Nature Guardians advocating for green spaces, sustainable development, and responsible resource management. Picture NGOs with Guardians ensuring their projects truly benefit the ecosystems they aim to protect.
Challenges and Considerations:
Of course, implementing such a radical shift comes with its challenges. Determining the selection process, scope of authority, and resources for Nature Guardians requires careful consideration. Additionally, ensuring they remain true to their role and avoid bias requires robust frameworks and ethical guidelines.
Embrace the Change:
Despite the challenges, the benefits of embracing Nature Guardians far outweigh the complexities. The ecological crisis demands transformative solutions, and giving nature a voice and a vote at the decision-making table is a bold step in the right direction. It’s time we acknowledge our dependence on healthy ecosystems and recognize that their well-being is inextricably linked to our own.
A Call to Action:
We urge companies, communities, and governing bodies to explore the concept of Nature Guardians. Encourage open discussions, pilot projects, and collaborations to refine the idea and find solutions that work. With courage, creativity, and a genuine commitment to sustainability, we can create a future where nature is not just respected, but truly empowered to guide our way towards a thriving planet. Remember, the future we build hinges on the health of the natural world. Let’s ensure it has a seat at the table, shaping a future where humanity and nature can flourish together.
Want to know more?
Contact us to discuss the concept or practicalities of having a Nature Guardian in your organisation weareNatureBased@protonmail.com
Additional Resources:
- Faith in Nature: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/sep/22/eco-beauty-company-faith-in-nature-board-directors
- Nature on the Board: https://natureontheboard.com/
- Lawyers for Nature: https://www.lawyersfornature.com/