Overview
Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) was established in 2012 by governments to strengthen the interface between science and policy on biodiversity and ecosystem services. It responds to growing concerns about biodiversity loss and its implications for human wellbeing, economies, and development.The organisation’s core purpose is to provide policymakers with credible, independent, and policy-relevant scientific knowledge. IPBES operates on the principle of supporting informed decision-making without prescribing specific policies.
Mission and focus areas
IPBES aims to assess the state of biodiversity and ecosystem services, their contributions to people, and the drivers of environmental change. Its work focuses on biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, nature’s values, and pathways towards sustainable futures.While not a finance-specific body, IPBES is increasingly relevant to sustainable finance and ESG integration. Its assessments inform understanding of nature-related risks, dependencies, and systemic impacts, supporting more informed capital allocation, risk management, and long-term value creation.
Structure and governance
IPBES is an intergovernmental platform with membership open to all United Nations member states. Its highest decision-making body is the Plenary, composed of member governments that approve work programmes and assessment outputs.Scientific work is guided by a Multidisciplinary Expert Panel, supported by a Bureau responsible for administrative and strategic oversight. The organisation is assisted by technical support units and a secretariat, with operational support provided through UN-affiliated partners.
Programs and offerings
IPBES produces global, regional, and thematic assessments on biodiversity and ecosystem services, including summaries for policymakers. These reports synthesise peer-reviewed science and Indigenous and local knowledge to support decision-making.In addition to assessments, IPBES develops methodological tools, scenarios, and capacity-building initiatives. Its outputs are widely used by governments, international organisations, researchers, and sustainability practitioners seeking authoritative insights into nature-related risks, impacts, and transition pathways.
