Here at Lawbox, we like to think of law as more than just a set of rules. Using your legals properly can be a powerful super-tool that facilitates big change. Is it possible then, that the right legals can change the world? No, really!
From big business to small, we are all beginning to think about our own purpose and how we can make a difference. And one of the coolest ways this is happening is by incorporating Nature as a Stakeholder. Yes, you read that correctly, Nature as one of your stakeholders. Intrigued? We were!
nature in the boardroom.
Picture this. Corporate boards are ordinarily filled with talk of profits, markets, and numbers. But what if nature itself had a seat at the table? Now we know you’re probably thinking of Te Fiti in Moana by now? Sadly, no. But, the good news is that it doesn’t need you to transport nature’s very own goddess across the waters just to sit in on a board meeting!
Thanks to the Onboarding Nature Toolkit, we have a better way! The Onboarding Nature Toolkit is the result of some shared research, much enthusiasm and, frankly, a tonne of hard work by some incredible people (the Nature Governance Agency, B Lab Benelux (BLB), and Nyenrode Business Universiteit (NBU) to be precise). The intention. To inspire and make it easy for more companies to shift from human-centred to nature-inclusive governance models.
What’s included? Well, all of the following and more:
- impact assessments;
- guidance;
- tools;
- methods; and
- handy tips.
Companies like Faith in Nature and the Better Business Network are already ahead of the game. They’ve hired a Director of Nature themselves. Yep, you read that right.
The environment now has a literal seat at the table. And companies like Patagonia? They’ve gone full-on superhero mode, giving ownership to a trust that protects their mission and ensures profits align with keeping the planet in tip-top shape. Go big or go home, right?
from the boardroom to business operations: adding purpose to everything.
Now, recognising Nature as a stakeholder is just a small part of the fun. Businesses are getting really creative with how they embed purpose into their day-to-day operations. Here are a few fun facts:
Purpose in Company Articles: You can bake your values into your business documents. B Corps are already required to balance profit and purpose, and there’s talk of spreading that love across all UK businesses with the Better Business Act. Talk about a good business model right from the start.
- Director Duties & Climate Law: You thought climate and biodiversity weren’t part of the business gig? Think again! The Commonwealth Climate Law Initiative shows that business leaders are already responsible for considering climate impacts. It’s like the law is giving you a little nudge to do better.
- Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs): More and more companies are putting their employees in the driver’s seat by giving them a stake in governance. This is a sure fire way to get aligned for long-term sustainability.
- Purpose-Driven Contracts: What if every contract you signed reflected your values? Sounds crazy? Well, from supporting local suppliers to committing to charity, companies are using contracts to make the world a better place, one agreement at a time.
- Social Enterprises & Nonprofits: The rise of CICs, companies limited by guarantee, and mission-driven charities are proving that businesses can do good and still make a profit. It’s like the best of both worlds!
the business world is changing. are you in?
Einstein said: “The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.”
Let’s listen to the great man and change our thinking!
Rethinking business isn’t just about ticking boxes for compliance, it’s about redefining what success really looks like. With a little help from your legals, businesses can make sure they’re doing right by people, the planet, and their profit margins.
We’re all about helping businesses navigate this shift. Whether you’re bringing Nature into your governance, putting purpose in your legal documents, or rethinking ownership models, we’re here to help you make a difference.
Want to talk about how the law can work for your purpose? Hit us up! Want to simply share ideas, we’re here for that too. It’s all about the collaboration and we’ll happily follow where others have paved the way….