Biodiversity underpins our planet’s health; Human rights underpin our societies’ health
Eva Zabey, Executive Director, Business for Nature
Image courtesy of Liam Edwards, Unsplash
“I swore never to be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” - Elie Wiesel
Today marks two weeks since the death of George Floyd. In these past two weeks, our global community has come together to mourn and demand an end to racial injustice and violence. Business for Nature stands in solidarity with those calling for justice. #BlackLivesMatter
We often talk about how nature and biodiversity underpin the very fabric of our human systems - healthy societies, resilient economies and thriving businesses rely on nature. We mustn’t forget that human rights are equally foundational, but are often abused, undervalued, and taken for granted. Just as biodiversity can be used as an indicator of the health of our planet, human rights indicate the health of our societies – when either are in danger, the very foundation on which our natural and social systems are built is at risk of collapse.
We can't tackle the interrelated nature, climate, and health crises when we don't also address inequality and systematic racism. Environmental injustice is a concern in many marginalized communities, who are often at greater risk from the impacts of climate change and environmental pollution. We’re asking governments for more ambitious nature policies linked to the transformation of our economic systems - including tackling inequality.
We must protect, support, include, and advocate for those who are disadvantaged. Two organizations spring to mind. The Green Worker Cooperatives build and sustain worker-owned green businesses “to create a strong, local, and democratic economy rooted in racial and gender equality,” and Outdoor Afro is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring Black connections and leadership in nature.
We have no tolerance for hate or injustice and recognize the role we must play to help break down barriers for minority and indigenous communities. We must amplify their voices as we call for the transformative change that’s needed for everyone and everything to live sustainably on a healthy planet.
Business for Nature is an inclusive global coalition composed of diverse organizations working to unify the business voice calling to reverse nature loss this decade.