Global Nature Fund and WWF Germany support companies in understanding their impact on nature and biodiversity, setting science-based targets and aligning their business models for the future
Berlin / Radolfzell, 24.03.2026 – Climate risks are now part of the strategy for many companies. The situation is different when it comes to biodiversity: Few can name their impact on nature and biodiversity or the resulting business risks. With Science-based Targets for Nature, the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) provides a framework for companies to help them understand and reduce their nature-related impacts and dependencies. To make it easier for companies to use the framework, the SBTN has launched an international accelerator program. One Planet Business – by WWF” and Global Nature Fund are now also bringing the SBTN Accelerator to Germany.
The six-part program starts in June 2026 and is aimed at sustainability managers from large and medium-sized companies from manufacturing industries and from the areas of raw materials extraction and processing. Applications are possible until May 15, 2026. If water resources and raw materials become scarce, soil yields decline and other ecosystem services are lost, this has far-reaching economic consequences which, according to the World Biodiversity Council’s “Business & Biodiversity” report, affect every company directly or indirectly. The loss poses major challenges for companies along their entire value chains. At the same time, there is growing pressure from investors, customers and regulatory authorities to implement credible and measurable sustainability strategies.
SBTN Accelerator Program for companies
Against this background, WWF Germany and Global Nature Fund (GNF) are jointly launching an SBTN Accelerator Program for German companies that want to strategically anchor the “nature” factor and derive concrete goals and measures.
In six modules that build on each other, the participants are guided through the individual steps of the SBTN framework by teams of experts from GNF and WWF Germany – from analyzing the impacts and dependencies of their own company to developing resilient goals and implementation plans.
A total of 15 places are available for companies. The program is aimed in particular at large companies from manufacturing industries and from the areas of raw materials extraction and processing. Companies can express their interest until May 15, 2026. The final group of participants is then selected on the basis of defined criteria in order to put together the most effective and diverse group possible.
Bundled expertise for a transformation in harmony with nature
With the SBTN Accelerator, WWF Germany and Global Nature Fund are pooling their many years of experience in cooperation with companies, in nature and biodiversity conservation and in the development of science-based sustainability strategies.
As a nature conservation organization, WWF Germany has been supporting companies in their transformation towards sustainable business models and responsible supply chains for many years. The Global Nature Fund contributes its extensive expertise in the areas of biodiversity, water and ecosystem protection as well as in international multi-stakeholder processes.
All information at a glance
The SBTN Accelerator program consists of six half-day modules between mid-June and November, two of which are face-to-face. The program starts with an introduction to Science-based Targets for Nature and a look at nature-based business risks. Modules two to five combine technical input on steps 1a to 2c of the SBTN framework with peer-to-peer learning and practical exercises. The sixth module paves the way for the transition to in-house work with Science-based Targets for Nature.
Further information and expression of interest:
Strategically anchoring nature: with the SBTN Accelerator – Global Nature Fund (GNF)
One Planet Business by WWF – Management consultancy (WWF)
About SBTN
The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) is an international initiative that develops methods and resources for science-based targets for nature. The methodology was developed by leading experts in the field of nature conservation together with companies. Following on from the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) for climate targets, which over 1000 companies worldwide have joined since 2015, the SBTN addresses economic impacts on biodiversity, land, freshwater and oceans. Since the publication of the first methodology in 2023, the pioneers in its application include companies such as GSK, Kering and Holcim.
About Global Nature Fund
The Global Nature Fund (GNF) is an internationally active environmental foundation based in Germany. GNF has been committed to the protection of water, biodiversity and ecosystems since 1998 and has been advising companies on the effective implementation of biodiversity measures for 15 years. Further information at: www.globalnature.org
About WWF Germany
WWF Germany has been campaigning for the protection of natural resources for over 60 years. With its projects in more than 100 countries, WWF is working to preserve biodiversity, limit climate change and promote sustainable economic practices. The One Planet Business team supports companies on their way to greater environmental and climate protection. Further information at: www.wwf.de
