On November 21, SAN joined leaders from across the globe at St. James’s Palace, London, for launch of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance (CBA). Hosted by His Majesty King Charles III, the event brought together over 100 scientists, business leaders, and indigenous representatives to accelerate the transition to a "nature-first economy" that prioritizes the health of the planet alongside economic prosperity.
Founded by King Charles III in 2020 during his tenure as Prince of Wales, the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance emphasizes the need to "Re-Nature, Re-Think, and Re-Activate" global systems to create a regenerative, inclusive, and climate-neutral economy. This pivotal event underscored the importance of redesigning supply chains around nature-based solutions, supported by innovative financial mechanisms.
Marc Palahí, CEO of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance, highlighted the urgency of this transformation:
"Nature is the keystone infrastructure regulating our planetary system, including its climate, the food we eat, the water we drink, and the oxygen we breathe… We have the knowledge and technology for this transformation; we just need the wisdom and mindset to do it."
SAN and the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance: A Partnership Rooted in Action
SAN has proudly partnered with the CBA since its founding as an initiative of the European Forest Institute, sharing its vision of a sustainable, inclusive future. As an affiliate member of the CBA, SAN actively supports its initiatives and both organizations have collaborated on the implementation of a Living Lab for Resilient Coffee Landscapes in Colombia, jointly with SAN member Fundación Natura and within the framework of SAN’s TerraViva signature program. This project demonstrates how regenerative landscapes can be catalysts for equitable and sustainable value chains while empowering local communities.
Reflecting on SAN’s collaboration with the CBA, Executive Director José Joaquín Campos Arce remarked:"
The Circular Bioeconomy Alliance embodies the transformative power of partnerships that place nature at the center of our economic and social systems. At SAN, we are proud to have been part of this journey from the beginning, working alongside the CBA to demonstrate that regenerative landscapes are not just a possibility but a necessity for a sustainable and equitable future."
José Joaquín Campos Arce, who has served on the CBA Scientific Advisory Board since its inception in 2022, represented SAN at the launch event, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to advancing shared goals.
New Living Labs and Initiatives to Reimagine Nature-Based Solutions
The event marked significant milestones for the CBA, including the announcement of two new Living Labs:
A regenerative fashion initiative in India focused on sustainable cashmere production and landscape restoration, supported by Brunello Cucinelli.
A medicinal plant initiative in Italy designed to foster nature-based production, supported by Aboca.
These initiatives reflect the CBA’s mission of demonstrating how regenerative landscapes can support resilient communities and circular value chains. Additional projects announced at the event include educational programs in the Amazon and Australia, bio-architecture in Bhutan, and ongoing restoration efforts across Africa and Europe.
Uyunkar Domingo Peas Nampichkai, President of the Amazon Sacred Headwaters Alliance, praised the CBA’s support for initiatives like the Living School of the Amazon, which empowers indigenous youth to become stewards of rainforest territories through leadership training and practical skills development.
Pioneering Nature Finance for a Circular Economy
A key highlight of the launch was the introduction of the Sir Evelyn de Rothschild Fellowship for Reimagining Nature Finance and Inclusive Capitalism. Developed in partnership with the ERANDA Rothschild Foundation, the Fellowship aims to transform traditional financial systems to place nature at the heart of economic progress.
Lady Lynn Forester de Rothschild, CEO of E.L. Rothschild LLC, emphasized the Fellowship's purpose:
"The Sir Evelyn de Rothschild Fellowship seeks to reimagine nature finance as a critical accelerator of economic change to address the pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges of our time."
A Shared Commitment to Transforming Economies
As the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance continues to drive the global transition toward a nature-first economy, SAN remains steadfast in its commitment to this transformative vision. By combining expertise, radical collaboration, and on-the-ground action, SAN and the CBA demonstrate the power of partnerships to create sustainable, regenerative systems that benefit both people and the planet.
Stay tuned for more updates as SAN and the CBA work together to reimagine our economic systems and foster a healthier, more resilient future.