Weekly Deals: Natural Resources

There are compelling reasons for investing in natural capital -­ our ecosystems, biodiversity and natural resources;­ and the choices for investors in these areas are increasing.

Three of the latest deals listing with Maximpact this week show how attractive deals with Mother Earth can be.

Deal: D000470

By focusing on climate change, this fund demonstrates that financial performance can be fully aligned with sound environmental stewardship and social development. It places special emphasis on sustainable land-use, biodiversity and ecosystem services, while seeking to leverage investment by raising $ 150 million to catalyze a range of positive impacts including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, sustained or enhanced biodiversity and ecosystem function and conservation of endangered species.

The Fund is now gathering further commitments for rounds to be completed in Autumn 2013 and Spring 2014. They are seeking investments from $5 million to $25 million.

Deal: D000477

This opportunity consists of three different projects that will collectively protect nearly 250,000 acres in the Amazon rainforest from slash-and-burn forest clearing and prevent millions of tons of greenhouse gas emissions. About 20% of global warming is attributed to deforestation, which reduces the Earth’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. These projects will mitigate deforestation, preserve biodiversity, and provide alternative economic opportunities to local communities.

The deals are seeking investment in the range of $1 million to $5 million.

Deal: D000471

This organization employs resource accounting tools to measure human impact and uses the insights to help communities make more informed choices. The project focuses on Spain and Greece, two EU countries, both heavily hit by the economic downturn. It helps local authority partners to understand their dependence on natural resources and to integrate this knowledge into their plans for sustainable economic recovery. The project is to be implemented in three phases over three years with partners such as: WWF, Greece, Eco-Union, FEMISE, University of Lyon and ACR+.

To ensure its completion, this deal is seeking investment of 1.5 million EUR in grants.

For a full view of available opportunities in any of our sectors,log into Maximpact and navigate to the deal platform. Not a Maximpact member?Register now.

Further recommended reading: The Little Biodiversity Finance Book: A guide to proactive investment in natural capital. Look for it in the Newsstand.

[Image credit: CIAT International Center for Tropical Agriculture. Flickr]