NextEnergy Solar Fund (NESF) has unveiled its first Nature Strategy Report, outlining a strategic plan to meet habitat targets and enhance its environmental impact. The report reflects lessons learned from over a decade of engagement with the ecosystems surrounding its solar farm assets, following NESF's initial public offering.
The report provides a structured framework designed to foster stronger relationships with nature while managing habitat-related risks. It also highlights opportunities to create and capture value from emerging environmental markets, aligning with global standards such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), the Science-Based Targets Network (SBTN), and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
Key commitments outlined in the report include ensuring no conversion of natural ecosystems, preventing material loss of natural ecosystems in direct operations and supply chains. NESF also commits to responsible land stewardship across its assets, implementing nature management plans, prioritizing dual land-use regimes, and restoring ecosystems in regions where its operations take place. Additionally, NESF will enhance its supply chain transparency and sustainability by updating nature-related risk management procedures.
Josephine Bush, Chairwoman of the board's ESG committee, emphasized that NESF's approach is designed to address nature-related risks across its operations, positioning the fund for sustainable growth in the face of both economic and environmental challenges.
Hing Kin Lee, NESF's Vice President and Global Nature Lead, added that the Nature Strategy builds upon insights gained from COP16 and highlights the company's role in combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and curbing nature loss. The strategy also aims to unlock new revenue streams as carbon, biodiversity, and ecosystem service markets evolve.
Lee stated: “As carbon, biodiversity, and other ecosystem service markets mature, NESF's Approach to Nature could create opportunities to unlock additional revenue streams and enhance environmental outcomes.”
