By working at the forefront of science-driven biodiversity assessment and improvement, we're helping organisations tackle rainforest and biodiversity loss. We're providing support to commercial organisations, financial institutions, NGOs and governments, to better protect wildlife, people and the planet.
Our team includes environmental scientists; finance, business, and sustainability experts; field researchers; and data analysts. The Institute of Zoology was scored in a joint submission to REF2021 as some of the highest in the UK, with 88.5% of research outputs and 90.9% of impacts judged as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.
We provide insights to help financial institutions mitigate nature-related risks in their portfolios – so that their investment decisions and stewardship activities contribute to global biodiversity goals and reflect their clients’ environmental and social values.
Our experience working with the finance industry, while undertaking biodiversity research and carrying out on-the-ground conservation projects globally, has contributed to our deep understanding of the relationship between the financial sector and nature.
Supporting sustainable business
Impact fund stewardship support - AVIVA
We're conducting deep dive biodiversity research into companies selected by Aviva Investors for their Natural Capital Transition Fund. We analyse company operations and supply chains, and review of policies, targets, and mitigation actions. ZSL also helps focus Aviva’s stewardship practices by providing bespoke engagement suggestions for each company.
Conservation investment innovation –Rhino Impact Bond
Recently issued by the World Bank, the $150 million Rhino Conservation Bond was developed by ZSL, who remain as a project partner. It provides an innovative financing model for wildlife conservation that includes performance related outcome payments by the Global Environmental Facility based on investee’s success increasing the southern white rhino population.
Deforestation-risk open-access database – Data alignment project
Together with Global Canopy will are launching a new platform in 2023 bringing together the best data available on corporate exposure to, and reporting on, deforestation and other related ESG issues. Underpinned by SPOTT, Forest 500 and Trase data – this open-access platform will help financial institutions to identify portfolio risks and engagement opportunities.
Advisory services
Policy & Procedures
Support to develop a robust suite of corporate policies and implementation procedures which address biodiversity, climate and social impacts relevant to your supply chains.
Capacity Building
Training on national and international environmental legislation as well as voluntary sustainability schemes and sector-specific best practice.
Due Diligence & Responsible Sourcing Systems
Assistance to implement robust and comprehensive risk-based due diligence systems as well as responsible sourcing systems aimed at enhancing positive impacts of soft commodity sourcing.
Impact Verification
Targeted remote sensing and field assessment by our team, working with in-country specialists to help verify compliance with legislation and your corporate policy requirements.
Sustainability Transparency
Support to your organisation on sustainability reporting and disclosure to ensure transparency, accuracy and accountability designed to maximise recognition of your ESG practices.
Utilising our industry expertise, we tailor our approach to your sustainability needs and capacity.
Supporting sustainable business
Contact our advisory manager for more information on how your business can support wildlife, people and the planet.