SSFA Launches White Paper on Nature Financing for Financial Institutions

The Singapore Sustainable Finance Association (SSFA) has launched its inaugural white paper titled ‘Financing Our Natural Capital: A practical guide for FIs getting started on nature financing’.

• The white paper was developed by SSFA’s Natural Capital and Biodiversity (NCB) Workstream and offers practical guidance for financial institutions in Southeast Asia to manage nature-related risks alongside leveraging climate action.
• Over 25 industry members contributed insights over six months; the paper highlights the economic-nature interdependence and includes case studies.
• It points out that over 60% of Asia Pacific’s GDP depends on nature, emphasizing risks from natural capital depletion and opportunities such as a potential US$4.3 trillion unlock in nature-positive investments by 2030.
• It targets sectors highly dependent on natural capital including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and real estate, urging financial institutions to assess nature-related risks and dependencies.
• The white paper aims to connect financial institutions, policymakers, and economic players to translate global standards into practical strategies supporting Asia’s sustainable transition.

This initiative sets a foundation for integrating nature considerations alongside climate in financial decision-making, representing a significant step towards sustainable finance in Southeast Asia.