Chapter 1: Understanding Biodiversity Investment

Investing in biodiversity is not just economically beneficial; it plays a crucial role in safeguarding life on Earth.

A staggering return of 656 percent on investments aimed at preserving biodiversity raises an important question: why aren’t we taking action? The decline of biodiversity poses significant threats to all living organisms, including humans, and adversely affects the economy—especially sectors reliant on natural resources, such as agriculture and tourism.

Nature contributes an impressive US$44 trillion to the global economy, primarily due to biodiversity (de Lange, E., Sze, J.S., Allan, J., et al. A global conservation basic income to safeguard biodiversity. Nat Sustain (2023)). One promising solution is to provide a basic income to individuals in impoverished regions, preventing them from resorting to environmentally destructive practices for survival.

Although the financial commitment required for this basic income initiative from wealthier nations is considerable, the cost of inaction will undoubtedly be higher. Each day of delay could lead to greater economic losses and further species extinction. Yale School of the Environment estimates that as many as 150 species vanish daily.

Furthermore, governments allocate around US$500 billion annually in subsidies to industries that harm the environment. Conversely, funding basic income to combat habitat loss and preserve biodiversity could range from US$351 billion to US$6.73 trillion per year. The most ambitious strategies could provide living wages to 1.6 billion individuals across regions like the Amazon, East Africa, and Indonesia, thus protecting 44 percent of the world’s biodiversity.

Given that nature's contributions amount to US$44 trillion, an investment of US$6.73 trillion could yield an astounding return of 656 percent. Such an opportunity for investment is rare.

But there's more to this story. This investment serves as an economical safeguard for humanity, our economy, and biodiversity.

While we've been fortunate thus far, relying on nature's ability to provide food, clean air, and water, this balance is becoming precarious. Safeguarding biodiversity is essential for the survival of humanity, the planet, and economic stability. Diverse plant species are critical for oxygen production, while aquatic flora and fauna purify our water sources.

Pollinators like bees are essential for plant growth, and animals that consume plants play a vital role in maintaining forest ecosystems. Each species, predator and prey alike, is interconnected within this complex system.

An imbalance—too many herbivores, for instance—could lead to the destruction of plant life. Biodiversity ensures a delicate equilibrium among all species, which is necessary for sustaining natural systems.

Moreover, plants are sources of life-saving medicines, food, and materials, all of which contribute significantly to a thriving economy. Every organism, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, plays a role in maintaining this intricate balance.

Now is the time for affluent nations to take responsibility. Providing a basic income to protect biodiversity represents a feasible strategy to preserve our economy and the planet. Inaction will only exacerbate the existing challenges facing our world.

Section 1.1: The Economic Imperative of Biodiversity

Investments in biodiversity not only promise high returns but also protect vital ecosystems.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of Subsidies

Chapter 2: Strategies for Sustainable Investment

In the video "10 Investments Ranked NOW for MAXIMUM Gains," the discussion centers around high-yield investment opportunities that can also promote sustainability.

The second video, "The 5 Best Investments to Grow Your Wealth in 2024," explores key investment strategies that can enhance personal wealth while contributing positively to the environment.