Industry-wide alliances Model 2 These member-based coalitions unite organizations within or across sectors around common goals, leveraging complementary capabilities and influence to improve industry standards and practices. Built by Nature’s network model scales-up innovation in timber-based building, while fostering knowledge exchange and defining standards and policy in the European and global construction industry.13 Buildings account for 40% of global energy-related emissions,14 with concrete and steel a major source of CO2. Founded in 2021, Built by Nature (BbN) aims to cut industry emissions and promote the safe and effective storage of carbon in buildings, by championing timber-based solutions. BbN’s philanthropic funding brings the alliance an independence that allows it to be objective and mission-driven in its activities. By mobilizing national networks of demand-side actors – “frontrunners” such as developers, contractors, architects, engineers, property owners, investors, insurers and city officials – BbN cuts through siloes, fosters knowledge-sharing and works to overcome transition barriers. Members address value chain considerations, conduct R&D, develop policy and regulatory recommendations, and promote timber’s scalability. The wide cross-section of stakeholders embodies the collective strength needed to problem-solve, share and disseminate knowledge, and influence policy. For example, BbN has collaborated with the Forest & Climate Leaders’ Partnership to develop new international Principles For Responsible Timber Construction.15 BbN’s networks across Europe tackle complex local challenges; for example, its UK network is addressing insurability concerns around mass timber use, while the Netherlands network has developed new financing models for bio-based social housing. BbN also enables thematic collaboration between and within networks and amplifies solutions across borders. Each network features 25-50 frontrunners, selected for their influence (whether scale or disruptiveness) and reputation for innovation.CASE STUDY Built by Nature – Winner, 2025 GAEA Award for Impactful Innovation Enabler –Alignment across collaborators. An annual survey of local network members helps ensure network-wide alignment on challenges and priorities. –Creating trust and engagement. Limitations on members in each network fosters familiarity, trust and deeper collaboration. Members (even competitors) display a high willingness to share knowledge, best practice and insights. –Conducive structure for problem solving. The national network structure allows members to identify commonalities and differences across regions and subsectors, accelerating progress.Highlights Buildings account for 40% of global energy- related emissions, with concrete and steel a major source of CO2. Built by Nature aims to cut industry emissions and promote carbon storage by championing timber- based solutions. Making Collaboration Work for Climate and Nature: Practical Insights from GAEA Award Winners 14