Investing in nature: mobilising private sector engagement to deliver global commitments

Wetlands are essential for climate resilience, biodiversity, water security and economic development. They sustain livelihoods, reduce disaster risks and support key sectors such as agriculture, energy and industry. Yet they continue to be degraded across Europe and globally, undermining progress towards EU environmental objectives and international commitments. Strengthening the external dimension of EU environmental policy, while linking it more clearly to socio-economic outcomes, is therefore critical.

This session moves beyond traditional policy discussions by focusing on real-world experiences and practical solutions. It showcases concrete examples of private sector engagement, illustrating how wetlands contribute to risk management, water security, supply chain resilience and long-term value creation. It also demonstrates the economic case for investing in nature-based solutions in partner countries.

To reinforce the international dimension, the session includes a perspective from a non-EU country engaged in global voluntary initiatives such as the Freshwater Challenge, the Mangrove Breakthrough or the Peatland Breakthrough. This illustrates how wetlands are increasingly recognised as strategic assets for sustainable development and economic resilience.

The discussion explores how global ambition can be translated into concrete investment opportunities, addressing barriers such as perceived risks, lack of structured pipelines and fragmented approaches. Particular attention is given to the role of the EU in enabling and scaling such investments.

In this context, EU wetland partnerships are presented as a practical tool to connect policy, finance and implementation in partner countries, including under the Global Gateway and in support of the EU water resilience strategy.

The session takes the form of an interactive panel lasting 75–90 minutes, with contributions from EU institutions, private sector actors, investors and practitioners, followed by audience discussion.

Organised by Wetlands International Europe, the session contributes to EU Green Week 2026 by strengthening the external dimension of EU environmental action and promoting integrated approaches to water, biodiversity and climate.