“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” — Jane Goodall (free translation)
The life and work of Jane Goodall are a powerful testament to the impact that a clear vision can have on the world. By dedicating herself to the research and protection of chimpanzees and ecosystems, Goodall transformed our understanding of the relationship between humans and nature. Her journey shows that when actions are guided by purpose, impact transcends the individual and generates collective change.
For businesses, this reflection is equally essential. Just as every person exerts influence on the planet and society every day, so does every organization. The question is: in which direction does that influence go? This is where corporate purpose comes in. More than an inspiring statement, purpose should be the North Star that guides strategic decisions and defines priorities for action. It is from purpose that companies decide what kind of difference they want to make, turning intentions into concrete results.
Following her example, we turn to the context of SDG 15 – Life on Land, a reflection that can no longer be postponed. The loss of biodiversity poses material risks to business, from instability in supply chains to the scarcity of critical natural resources. As highlighted in a recent BCG report, this is not merely an environmental challenge but a business crisis: more than half of global GDP depends on nature, and its degradation exposes companies to rising costs, regulatory pressure, and reputational risks. However, those who act early can transform biodiversity management into a driver of resilience, innovation, and long-term competitive advantage. At the same time, it opens the door to partnership opportunities and enhanced value creation with customers, investors, and communities. Integrating biodiversity into corporate purpose means recognizing, from the outset, that lasting value creation depends on preserving the natural capital that sustains it. The Altri Group offers a clear example of how investing in biodiversity can open new opportunities for both business and society. By integrating forest management with value-added activities, Altri has developed innovative projects such as using goats for fuel management and fire prevention, producing FSC-certified eucalyptus honey through monitored apiaries, and supporting local beekeepers with land and best practices.
These initiatives strengthen ecosystem resilience, reduce environmental risks, generate new revenue streams, build stronger relationships with local communities, and reinforce a more sustainable brand. Altri demonstrates how biodiversity can be transformed from a perceived cost into a source of innovation, competitiveness, and long-term value.
Following Jane Goodall’s example means recognizing that we make choices every day. For companies, those choices are reflected in policies, investments, products, and relationships. Purpose serves as a compass, aligning those choices with a higher impact that creates added value both for the company and for society. It is about mitigating risks, but it goes beyond that: it is also about building a future where business and nature can thrive side by side.
Ultimately, the challenge is clear: every company must decide what kind of difference it wants to make. Purpose provides the answer, and strategy turns that answer into reality.
Adriana Zani, Researcher at Center for Responsible Business and Leadership