From offsetting to nature positive.

July 26, 2024

News & Insights

Niche was thrilled to support the EIANZ’s National Biodiversity Offsets Conference 3.0 in Canberra from July 23rd to 25th as a platinum sponsor this year.

With nearly 400 delegates gathering to share insights and innovations, it was a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders, government officials, and passionate individuals dedicated to advancing biodiversity offsets and their importance in achieving a nature positive future.

Day one began with David Francis, Chair of the EIANZ Organising Committee, introducing the distinguished Professor Graeme Samuel AC and Nick Thomas (Clayton Utz), who led a dynamic discussion on legislative reforms. Prof. Samuel highlighted the slow but positive progress of the Commonwealth EPBC Act reforms. Jasmine Wood (HSF) and Laura Waterford (Pollination Group) then delved into pathways to achieving a nature-positive future and the evolving voluntary biodiversity markets while James Tregurtha and Mahani Taylor (Commonwealth DCCEEW) discussed the proposed National Environmental Standards for ecological restoration.

Simon Tweed – Manager, Natural Capital Strategy at Niche introduced Anthony Lean (NSW DCCEEW), who presented on the NSW Government’s response to the Biodiversity Conservation Act review and its implications for offsets. Anthony participated in a panel with Lisien Loan (SA DWE), Graeme Grosse (Comm. DCCEEW), and Sara Harbidge (Vic DEECA), facilitated by Luke Baker – Executive General Manager – Operations at Niche, where they explored various regulatory and policy issues. The day concluded with a poster session where delegates engaged over drinks and nibbles, discussing project examples and offset initiatives.

Day two featured keynote presentations by Professor Hugh Possingham and Professor Martine Maron, who provided insights into how offsets can contribute to a nature-positive goal. The day included technical sessions led by Dave Fleming, Senior Principal – Natural Capital Strategy at Niche and Dr Cairo Forrest, Practice Leader – Ecology at Niche, with Cairo’s use of the Terminator metaphor being a standout. The Gala Dinner at the National Museum of Australia was a highlight, featuring a string trio and captivating stories from wildlife filmmaker Chadden Hunter.

Day three opened with Zoe Whitton (Pollination), who joined a panel with Tim King (Melior), Alexandra Banks (EY), and Julia Leske (Pollination) to discuss how the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures can drive private sector investment in biodiversity. Plenary sessions included contributions from Sheridan Coakes and Anneke Monte (Umwelt), Heather Campbell (Greening Australia), Kimberly Swords (Riffle Advisor), and Derryn Heilbuth (BWD Strategic) on effective stakeholder communication. The afternoon explored offsets in the renewable energy transition, with presentations from Beth Kramer (LightsourceBP), Kala Saban (CEFC), Louisa Mamouney (NMO), and Alex Cockerill (WSP). The conference concluded with a workshop facilitated by David Francis and a wrap-up by Andrew Morison (Business and Biodiversity), with a forthcoming communique to capture the key themes and future directions.

The EIANZ National Biodiversity Offsets Conference 3.0 was a remarkable showcase of dedication to biodiversity offsetting. We’re grateful to be a part of such a successful event. Together, we are forging pathways to a nature-positive future and driving meaningful change. We look forward to building on these insights and collaborations in the months ahead.