Nature Positive Role of the Offshore Wind Sector

Page 43 of 58 · WEF_Nature_Positive_Role_of_the_Offshore_Wind_Sector.pdf

Mapping strategies and actions by business function (continued) TABLE 7 Business function Potential strategies and actions required for a nature-positive transition Finance and risk managementFinancial management Revise capital planning assumptions for nature-positive related businesses cases (e.g. pay-off periods for investments may increase versus traditional capital expenditures) Consider impacts of nature-positive transition on balance sheet (e.g. high-polluting assets might have to be written off prematurely or written down on an accelerated timeline) Investments Increase capital spending on projects enabling the nature-positive transition of the business (e.g. retrofitting plants, supporting other nature-based solutions) –In particular, allocate funding to improve nature-inclusive design Allocate budget for innovation spending, such as for circular innovations and research into bio-based or recycled material for feedstocks –Plan for the financial implications of incorporating circularity and sustainable product development Commit to investments in nature conservation, restoration and nature-based solutions in collaboration with NGOs and local communities Financing Consider that the cost of capital for high-polluting operations could increase Consider that availability of capital may become contingent on credible nature-positive strategies Use new sources of funding, such as green bonds and sustainability loans, nature-focused impact funds, blended funding and partnership with NGOs Risk management and disclosure Consider that new nature-related risks may emerge that need to be managed (see TNFD framework), for example: –Physical and supply chain risks, such as decreased water availability or quality in the supply chain –Transition risks including demand shifts, regulatory risks and reputational risks Prepare required nature-related disclosures for audited statements for CSRD (and potentially under forthcoming requirements of the ISSB) Procurement Ensure procurement decisions are aligned with sustainability imperatives and strategy Engage closely with upstream suppliers to discuss impacts and dependencies, as well as priority actions, and co- develop implementation strategies Develop innovative working models or partnerships with suppliers to support the transition (e.g. upfront payments or co-financing) Research and development (R&D)Invest in research for new nature-positive products and production techniques Introduce new metrics to track the effect of R&D spending related to the nature-positive transition of the business, in addition to financial returns from R&D spending Operations (own) Identify relevant indicators and establish applicable metrics as well as define the respective target ambition and baseline for each and subsequently report publicly on progress Enhance efficiency of production processes (e.g. digitalization and automation in manufacturing processes; energy efficiency measures; recycling and re-use, nature-inclusive design) Engage in conservation and restoration initiatives Operations (supply chain management)Identify relevant indicators, establish applicable metrics, define the respective target ambition and baseline for each and subsequently report publicly on progress made Collaborate with suppliers for sustainable sourcing and improved traceability Support suppliers (where possible) in taking nature-positive actions for their own operations Human resources Upskill workforce on nature and biodiversity topics (where relevant) Hire relevant external expertise (e.g. additional human resources might be required to prepare for upcoming nature- related reporting and disclosure requirements) Nature Positive: Role of the Offshore Wind Sector 43
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