Others depend less on inadequately-managed natural resources

Every company must ensure that any natural resources it obtains itself are managed responsibly, to live up to the Break-Even Goals. Here we consider actions which go beyond this.

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About this Positive Pursuit

Every company must ensure that any natural resources it obtains itself are managed responsibly, to live up to the Break-Even Goals. Here we consider actions that go beyond this.

This Positive Pursuit applies if – as a result of the company’s action:

More responsibly-managed natural resources are produced, to increase the amount available to others;
A natural resource which was being produced in a disruptive way is transformed to be responsibly-managed;
Fewer goods and services are derived from endangered or threatened flora and fauna; or
Less natural resource is required to serve the same needs.

Why it’s needed

Natural resources are being depleted by society at an unsustainable rate.
Currently, humanity’s annual use of renewable natural resources is 1.7 times that which can be regenerated over an entire year. In 2017, society had already used a year’s worth of available renewable resources by the 2nd of August.
We’re currently experiencing the worst incidence of species extinction since the loss of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago.
Extinction occurs at a natural background rate of about one to five species per year. Scientists estimate we’re now losing species at 1,000 to 10,000 times the background rate, with dozens going extinct every day.
Illegal poaching and wildlife trafficking remains prolific, despite worldwide efforts.
Illicit poaching and trafficking of wildlife continues to thwart conservation efforts, with nearly 7,000 species of animals and plants reported in illegal trade involving 120 countries.

SDGs this will contribute to

2. Zero hunger
Hundreds of millions of people today go hungry, while unsustainable farming practices degrade soil quality, use too much water, reduce biodiversity, and put rural communities under pressure.
Learn more about SDG 2
8. Decent work and economic growth
Sustainable economic growth requires society to create conditions that allow the whole working age population to have quality jobs which stimulate the economy while not harming the environment.
Learn more about SDG 8
9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Growth in productivity and incomes, and improvements in health and education, require innovation and investment in critical infrastructure such as transport, irrigation, energy, and information technology.
Learn more about SDG 9
12. Responsible consumption and production
Sustainable consumption and production aims to do more and better with less, increasing net welfare gains from economic activities that reduce resource use, degradation and pollution.
Learn more about SDG 12
14. Life below water
The world’s oceans – their temperature, chemistry, currents and life – drive natural processes that make the Earth habitable for humankind. Careful management of this global resource is critical to our future.
Learn more about SDG 14
15. Life on land
Land degradation, deforestation and desertification - caused by human activities and climate change - pose big challenges to sustainable development and undermine the livelihoods of millions of people.
Learn more about SDG 15

Natural Resources

All Break-Even Goals and Positive Pursuits relating to this topic...

Break-Even Goals

Natural resources are managed to respect the welfare of ecosystems, people and animals

BE03

Positive Pursuits

Others depend less on inadequately-managed natural resources

PP05

PP05