Choose nature.
Unlocking pathways to a resilient economy for people and the planet.
“Transformative change is urgent because there is a closing window of opportunity to avoid further biodiversity loss and prevent triggering the potentially irreversible decline and projected collapse of key ecosystem functions. Delaying action to achieve global sustainability is costly compared with the benefits of taking action now”
This statement opens the summary of the IPBES Report on Transformative Change, warning us about the risks of failing to address biodiversity loss with the urgency the situation demands.
At the same time, current EU political priorities aim to foster competitiveness to ensure that European businesses can thrive in the global marketplace. This, coupled with a fast-changing geopolitical context, signals a shift in focus — from ambitious environmental targets to a stronger emphasis on economic growth.
This seemingly divergent context invites us to reflect on the opportunities and challenges of addressing these questions together. Organised by Network Nature in collaboration with Brussels Environment, this year´s NetworkNature Annual Event 2025 “Choose Nature” will explore different means to align biodiversity and economy in times of urgency, building on the concept of Nature-based Solutions. We will hear from a broad range of stakeholders, from the public and private sectors, examine diverse ideas, exchange knowledge, explore initiatives and share case studies that link nature with economy, innovation, finance and business. Through pitches and discussions, we will delve into pathways to build a resilient economy that benefits both people and planet. The event will also encourage stakeholders to engage with and adopt these approaches.
The event will be structured around four thematic sessions:
- Choose to work with and for nature – This session will explore how supporting and enhancing nature can help build a more resilient economy. Additionally, it will discuss how simplification can enhance environmental ambition.
- Choose to trust nature and people – This session will delve into the concept of dependency, highlighting nature’s ability to provide essential ecosystem functions. It will present Nature-based Solutions as innovative approaches —grounded in science, enriched by indigenous knowledge, and shaped with local communities — to current challenges.
- Choose to invest in nature – Focusing on innovative finance mechanisms, this session will explore and discuss a wide range of financing opportunities for nature, including both public and private sources.
- Choose to partner with nature – In the closing session, businesses working with nature will share key insights from their business models, highlighting opportunities, barriers, needs and strategies for nature-positive business practices.
In parallel to the main event, the exhibition Why Choose Nature? / Why do we care? will invite you and your organisation to explore the diverse (and divergent) reasons why working with nature is essential and why do you care about it.
Curated through this open call, this exhibition will compile a variety of resources, experiences and types of knowledges, all highlighting how nature-based approaches can encourage and build on a wide range of perspectives in relation to nature. This concept is inspired by the IPBES Values Assessment report and aims to contribute to a meaningful exchange during the event. This open call has been developed by NetworkNature in collaboration with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences SLU (Florence Damiens) and count on the support of Brussels Environment.
Know more about the open call and how to submit your proposal here.
Finally, during the event, NetworkNature will officially launch the NbS Business Forum and offer a space to showcase diverse nature-based business models, curated via an open call.
Do not to forget to register soon! Registrations available here.