History & key results

Leaders for Nature was established in the Netherlands in 2005 with the aim to move ecosystem-thinking to the centre of the Dutch private sector. Since 2005 Leaders for Nature has significantly contributed to awareness raising and knowledge building among over 1,000 people from over 50 companies. Action plans have been developed and implemented, and biodiversity strategies were set up. As the need for platforms on international and national level for joint action on biodiversity by companies and NGOs is increasing, Leaders for Nature will now expand on an international level, starting with India.

Key results of Leaders for Nature Netherlands:

  • 2006: In an Open Letter 85 CEOs ask the Government for long-term measures on nature. It is the first time in history that so many business leaders asked for regulation on environmental issues.
  • 2007: 10 concrete recommendations from IUCN NL and business leaders for the Dutch Government. IUCN NL asks for a Taskforce on biodiversity, long term policies and a green economy.
  • 2007: Young professionals of companies write an open letter to their CEOs and ask internally for follow up on the 2006 open letter.
  • 2008/2009/2010/2011/2012: Leaders for Nature Fora at Rabobank, Capgemini, PwC, ABN AMRO and Burgers' Zoo.
  • 2008: 40 CEOs and 4 ministers come together at biodiversity dinner.
  • 2009: Introduction of The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) in the Netherlands.
  • 2009: Taskforce Biodiversity and Natural Resources chaired by Hans Alders as follow up on 10 recommendations (2007). The business sector is key partner in the Taskforce.
  • 2010: Contribution to foundation of the Groene Zaak, Dutch confederation of sustainable companies.
  • 2010: Declaration on a Platform on Business and Biodiversity by Dutch employers VNO-NCW, MKB NL and LTO NL and IUCN NL and members.
  • 2011: Focus of LFN programme on biodiversity and ecosystems. The LFN Forum results in 16 ambitious action plans.
  • 2011: 11 Leaders for Nature companies sign a statement of intent to develop a long term programme on ecosystems and biodiversity.
  • 2011: IUCN NL and VNO-NCW make a green deal to implement the advice of the Taskforce Biodiversity and Natural Resources.
  • 2012: LFN companies made 82 deals to work together on greening the economy during the 5th LFN Forum.