The Nature Conservation Society of Japan (NACS-J) participated in the 8th IUCN Asia Regional Conservation Forum, held in Bangkok, Thailand, over three days from September 3 to 5, 2024.

This forum is organized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), for which NACS-J serves as the Japan committee secretariat. As global attention increasingly turns to biodiversity conservation in collaboration with the private sector, NACS-J co-hosted a side event on the theme “Business and Nature Conservation” together with the IUCN Japan Committee and the IUCN Korea Committee.

The Asia Regional Conservation Forum is one of nine regional meetings being held in preparation for the IUCN World Conservation Congress, scheduled for 2025 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The Bangkok forum attracted 650 participants from 360 organizations, including IUCN members, experts, and NGOs from across Asia.

Over the course of three days, participants shared challenges and initiatives related to biodiversity conservation in the region of Asia. Discussions focused on how to envision a Nature Positive future and on strategies for societal transformation.

The side event hosted by NACS-J, the IUCN Japan Committee, and the IUCN Korea Committee featured speakers from the Keidanren Committee on Nature Conservation (Japan Business Federation) and Korean research institutions. Topics included the shift from CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) to CSV (Creating Shared Value) in the business sector, as well as the impact of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) on Korean companies. The event showcased biodiversity initiatives by Japanese and Korean businesses, sharing them with a global audience.

NACS-J presented case studies of corporate collaboration, including the development of nature-friendly products and employee volunteer programs. They also introduced examples of three-party agreements involving local governments, corporations, and NACS-J—such as initiatives in Minakami Town and with Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.—highlighting the importance of advancing biodiversity conservation at the local level. Furthermore, the role of the financial sector in building a Nature Positive society was emphasized as particularly critical.

Following the presentations, a discussion session with participants was held, exploring how IUCN, environmental NGOs, and the private sector can effectively work together in biodiversity initiatives.

NACS-J remains committed to collaborating with companies to contribute to the realization of a Nature Positive society. Please look forward to our continued efforts.