As nature-related financial risks become increasingly material and urgent, financial institutions face mounting pressure to align investment strategies with environmental resilience and long-term sustainability. With over 50% of global GDP highly dependent on nature, ecosystem degradation and climate-related disasters now pose systemic threats to asset performance and economic stability.

Nature-based solutions (NBS) offer a critical pathway to mitigate financial risk, unlock sustainable growth, and support the transition to a nature-positive global economy. However, despite their potential, private sector investment in NBS remains limited—hampered by perceived risks, small ticket sizes and challenges to scalability. 

To support financial institutions in navigating these challenges and seizing the opportunities, the World Resources Institute (WRI) has published a new guidebook tailored to the financial sector: Financial Sector Guidebook on Nature-Based Solutions Investment: Aligning Investment With Impacts and Showcasing Examples.

This webinar convenes leaders from across the NBS finance ecosystem to explore how financial institutions can identify, evaluate and scale investments in nature. Panelists will share practical insights, real-world examples, and strategies to overcome persistent barriers and accelerate capital flows toward nature.

Key questions to be addressed by panelists:

  1. How have institutions addressed challenges such as small ticket sizes and limited bankability in NBS investments? What innovative financing instruments are emerging?
  2. What opportunities exist for private financial institutions to invest in nature-based solutions?
  3. What further actions are needed to mobilize greater volumes of private capital toward NBS? 

Speakers:

  • Rekia Foudel, Founder & Managing Partner, Barka Fund
  • Dinara Akhmetova, Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist, World Bank
  • Diako Makhmalbaf, Director ESG Solutions, HSBC
  • Helen Ding, Head of Restoration Economics for the Global Restoration Initiative, World Resources Institute
  • Gabrielle Nussbaum, Senior Manager, Sustainable Landscapes and Nature-Based Solutions, World Resources Institute (Moderator)

Cover image by Ricky Martin/CIFOR