Multiple pathways for a stewardship economy for biodiversity

Summary

Nature conservation often relies on market-driven methods, but these can overshadow values like civic responsibility and fairness. The stewardship economy concept emphasises preserving nature’s diverse values, though its implementation is unclear. This report explores pathways to a stewardship economy for biodiversity through case studies in Ethiopia, the Netherlands, Bonaire, and Indonesia. Key pathways include amplifying nature awareness, recognising biodiversity’s cultural importance, safeguarding social foundations, fostering partnerships, supportive policy, biodiversity-positive norms, and financial support. Using O’Brien’s three spheres of transformation - practical, political, and personal - the report categorises actions to illustrate interconnected pathways covering changes in behaviour, institutions, and beliefs. Meaningful change as reflected in pathways requires interaction among all three spheres.