Around 82 percent of businesses across the country want to “do the right thing” when it comes to nature, but how can they do more?

In a recent study by the Sustainable Business Network (SBN), Regenerating Nature in Aotearoa New Zealand, it is revealed that businesses play a transformative role when it comes to having a positive impact on the environment.

The majority of businesses within New Zealand have either expressed their interest in doing the right thing, or are already investing in nature projects.

Over the next five years, 70 percent of businesses say they will increase their investment in nature projects, and 24 percent have nature targets such as reducing deforestation.

For most businesses, this is a win-win situation.

Investing in the nature enhances a business’s reputation, reduces risk, creating a resilient supply chain and unlocks new opportunities for partnerships, innovation and growth, all while making the world a better place.

“We rely on nature, so investing in nature is smart business. It will help to create the kind of economy we all want, one without pollution and waste, where nature is valued for its many roles including in climate resiliency and wellbeing,” says Founder and CEO of SBN, Rachel Brown.

Read more: Businesses frustrated at the lack of sustainability in the industry

“Properly valuing nature ensures our long-term sustainability. It reduces risks. For business it enhances trust and brand reputation. It unlocks new opportunities, new ideas and success.”

With the positive feedback from businesses expressing their priority on positive impacts on the environment, SBN has launched the Regenerate Nature Programme alongside the Ministry for the Environment and Z Energy.

A five-year collaboration with local communities, Māori, businesses, public and philanthropic sectors, the Regenerate Nature Programme hopes to accelerate and scale up action on nature within the country.

Not only will this accelerate action for positive choices, it will also help businesses with aligning their wishes with local communities, the climate and natural world, while also embracing mātauranga Māori and other knowledge systems.

“Businesses have a crucial role to play in regenerating the landscapes, waterways and seas of Aotearoa New Zealand. By working together, we can halt and reverse the loss of native wildlife and wild places,” says SBN Programme Manager and author of the report, Sam Rowland.

“Meeting this challenge requires collaboration between business, government and communities. By investing in nature businesses can support community wellbeing, thriving biodiversity and climate resilience in Aotearoa New Zealand.”