Overview
Conservation International (CI) was founded in 1987 with the aim of protecting the Earth’s living heritage, its biodiversity, for the benefit of humanity. Its mission emphasises that human well-being is deeply intertwined with the health of natural ecosystems.
Mission and focus areas
CI seeks to empower societies to care responsibly and sustainably for nature, global biodiversity, and human welfare. Its work spans critical areas including climate, ocean conservation, biodiversity protection, and restoration of ecosystems. A distinctive element is its emphasis on “nature finance”, using financial tools — such as debt-for-nature swaps, forest bonds, and credits for blue carbon — to enable long-term conservation and sustainable commodity production.
Structure and governance
Based in Arlington, Virginia, CI operates globally through a network of field offices across continents. Staff include scientists, economists, community leaders, policy experts and conservation practitioners. Governance is overseen by a Board of Directors and senior leadership; CI also maintains a Code of Conduct and policies to ensure ethical, transparent operations worldwide.
Programs and offerings
CI delivers a mix of scientific research, field conservation, policy advocacy and innovative finance models. Its work includes identifying biodiversity “hotspots”, establishing protected areas, restoring ecosystems, and partnering with governments, businesses and local communities to support sustainable development. Through its Nature Finance Division, CI channels investment into conservation and sustainable commerce, enabling scalable and finance-driven conservation solutions. For a finance professional or sustainability practitioner, CI represents a leading example of integrating ecological science, community development and financial innovation to preserve biodiversity while promoting economic resilience and nature-based value creation.
Our mission
We envision a healthy, prosperous world in which societies are forever committed to caring for and valuing nature, for the long-term benefit of people and all life on Earth.
Building upon a strong foundation of science, partnership and field demonstration, Conservation International empowers societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, our global biodiversity, for the well-being of humanity.
