How Arcadis is Using Nature-Based Solutions for Net Zero Aim
Nature-based solutions (NBSs) can help to “protect, sustainably manage or restore nature ecosystems that address societal challenges such as climate change, human health, food and water security and disaster risk reduction effectively,” explains The World Bank Group.
As well as protecting ecosystems and societal wellbeing, NBSs could make an essential contribution to reach net zero by 2050 alongside other decarbonisation strategies.
Organisations like Arcadis understand that a “healthy biodiversity is crucial for our economy.”
The importance of nature-based solutions
All around the world, NBSs are in place to maximise habitat creation and other environmental benefits such as flood resilience, erosion resistance and carbon sequestration.
A key strength of NBSs lies in their versatility.
They can be purely ecological or hybrid, combining natural systems with engineered infrastructure, such as pairing mangrove restoration with sea walls to maximise flood defence, according to Arcadis.
Arcadis explains that “NBSs do not include solutions simply inspired by nature (nature-inspired solutions such as biomimicry) nor solutions that are driven by natural resources (nature-derived solutions such as wind farms).”
When designed using evidence-based and community-led approaches, NBSs deliver multiple benefits including resilience, carbon sequestration and enhanced biodiversity.
The World Economic Forum ranks biodiversity loss as the third most significant global risk over the coming decade.
In this context, NBSs are not optional; they are essential to ensure long-term economic and social wellbeing.
Arcadis and the care for nature
To bridge the gap between environmental stewardship and financial decision-making, Arcadis has developed its Natural Capital Valuation (NCV) model.
This tool quantifies the risks and opportunities linked to biodiversity and ecosystem health, enabling stakeholders to integrate nature into investment and development strategies.
The NCV model offers clear, evidence-based data on the current state of ecosystems, aligned with frameworks such as the Science-Based Targets for Nature (SBTN).
By assigning measurable value to natural capital, it helps organisations prioritise investments that are both profitable and nature-positive.
Arcadis has already applied the NCV in diverse contexts, from Serbia to Egypt and China, demonstrating its global relevance and impact.
In addition, Arcadis has partnered with developers like Immobel to conduct biodiversity assessments on new construction projects.
“Achieving a nature-positive future by 2030, the global goal as set forth by the United Nations at the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Conference (COP15), requires urgent, transformative action,” says Alan Brookes, CEO of Arcadis, in the company’s COP16 Nature Positive Report 2024.
“Arcadis stands ready to partner on this transformation, uniquely positioned to deliver nature-positive solutions, that extend beyond traditional design, engineering, architecture and consultancy."
Using tools such as its Biodiversity Net Gain Calculator, the company ensures that development enhances, rather than diminishes, ecosystem health.
This approach demonstrates how business objectives can align with net zero ambitions and a nature-positive transition.
Shifting towards nature positive
Encouragingly, momentum is building worldwide.
Businesses are increasingly embedding nature into their sustainability strategies, supported by frameworks such as the Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
These initiatives are raising the bar for transparency, accountability and action on biodiversity and ecosystem protection.
At its core, the movement reflects a profound shift: recognising nature not as a commodity to exploit but as a foundation for resilience, innovation and prosperity.
By embedding NBSs into development and financial systems, organisations can not only mitigate risk but also unlock new opportunities for growth and wellbeing.
Nature-based solutions represent one of the most effective pathways to a sustainable, nature-positive future.
Arcadis’ work, from the NCV model to biodiversity net gain strategies, demonstrates how businesses can lead this transformation by valuing and investing in nature.
As global risks mount, the integration of NBSs into policy, infrastructure and finance will be critical in shaping a resilient and prosperous future for people, business and the planet.
Nature-based solutions at Climate Week NYC
At Sustainability LIVE Climate Week NYC, 22 September 2025, a nature-based solutions panel discussion will take place, bringing together diverse leaders who are driving sustainability and innovation.
Mark McKenna, Global Sustainability Director at Arcadis, brings expertise in building resilient, sustainable infrastructure.
Santiago Gowland, CEO of the Rainforest Alliance, will share insights on deforestation, regenerative agriculture and the climate crisis.
Matthias Berninger, EVP, Public Affairs, Sustainability & Safety at Bayer, is set to provide information on Bayer’s decarbonisation, biodiversity preservation and climate adaptation.
Bernhard Kowatsch - Director Global Accelerator and Ventures of the UN World Food Programme Innovation Accelerator, will share why a flourishing environment is essential for food security.
To attend this panel and many more at Sustainability LIVE Climate Week NYC 2025, get your tickets now here.
