8-4. The Fusion of Nature-Positive and EHS Strategies

Nature Positive refers to a paradigm shift that aims to halt the loss of biodiversity and restore the natural environment. In corporate management, it is gaining attention as a way to achieve sustainable business operations and improve ESG ratings. Integrating it with EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) practices is essential, and strategically linking the two can be a source of competitive advantage.

First, is the integration of environmental conservation activities with business risk management. EHS departments have traditionally been responsible for environmental impact assessments and compliance with emissions regulations. By incorporating a Nature Positive perspective, they can go beyond simple risk avoidance and contribute to the restoration of natural capital and local ecosystems. For example, tree-planting activities or wetland restoration to protect the surrounding natural environment during factory construction can simultaneously reduce environmental impact and enhance the corporate brand value.

Second, is the consideration of biodiversity in the supply chain. Avoiding deforestation and ecosystem destruction when procuring raw materials and in production processes is a growing international requirement. EHS personnel need to establish a sustainable supply chain through environmental audits and the formulation of procurement standards, thereby fulfilling the company's social responsibility.

Third, is the promotion of employee education and awareness reform. To embed the Nature Positive concept, every employee must understand the importance of biodiversity and incorporate it into their daily work. It is effective to integrate ecosystem protection elements into EHS training programs and promote activities to reduce environmental impact on-site.

Fourth, is information disclosure and stakeholder communication. With the international expansion of frameworks like the TCFD (Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures) and TNFD (Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures), companies are required to disclose risks and opportunities related to both climate change and natural capital. It is important for the EHS department to establish systems for data collection, analysis, and reporting based on these disclosure standards.

Finally, is the coexistence of corporate value and ecosystem services. The conservation of the natural environment is directly linked to a company's sustainability in the form of stable procurement of raw materials, securing water resources, and building trust with local communities. By integrating EHS strategy with Nature Positive, companies can reduce risk while creating new growth opportunities.

Thus, the fusion of Nature Positive and EHS is positioned as a pillar of business strategy that goes beyond simple environmental compliance. By building a sustainable business model that coexists with nature, companies can secure social trust and long-term competitiveness.