| dc.description.abstract | This master's thesis investigates how Norwegian businesses are integrating the biodiversity targets of the Kunming-Montreal Framework into their corporate strategies and operations. The Kunming-Montreal Framework, ratified in 2022, emphasizes the private sector's role in biodiversity conservation, particularly through Target 15, which requires businesses to assess, monitor, and disclose their biodiversity impacts.
The research employs a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative interviews with sustainability professionals and document analysis of corporate sustainability reports. Findings indicate a nascent yet growing commitment among Norwegian businesses to align with the Kunming-Montreal targets. Larger corporations with established sustainability frameworks demonstrate more proactive integration, while small to medium-sized enterprises face challenges due to limited resources and guidance.
Key internal drivers include corporate values, leadership commitment, and existing environmental management systems. External factors such as regulatory frameworks, market pressures, and international norms significantly influence corporate behavior. Despite these efforts, the integration of biodiversity targets remains inconsistent and often lacks specificity, with companies prioritizing carbon footprint reduction over direct biodiversity conservation efforts.
The thesis underscores the need for more robust frameworks, clearer guidelines, and enhanced stakeholder engagement to fully operationalize these global biodiversity goals. It concludes that while progress is evident, achieving comprehensive integration of biodiversity targets in Norwegian business practices will require sustained focus, resources, and policy support. | |
