The Global Risk Institute (GRI) hosted an engaging discussion moderated by GRI Director, Audrie Chad, on the integration of nature into climate risk management, featuring industry leaders in sustainability Joanna Eyquem, (Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation), Lorraine Audsley (formerly Export Development Canada), Gildas Poissonnier (Desjardins Group), and Bertrand Millot (CDPQ).

The speakers emphasized the critical role of natural ecosystems in mitigating climate risks and delivering financial benefits. The panel also highlighted that Canada’s natural assets, such as wetlands valued at $225 billion annually, remain absent from financial reporting and planning, despite their ability to reduce climate-related losses and offer cost-effective alternatives to traditional infrastructure. The discussion underscored the material financial risks of ecosystem collapse, which could shrink global GDP by $2.7 trillion annually by 2030.

The speakers collectively called for financial institutions to prioritize investments in natural infrastructure, enhance their transparency on nature-related risks, and adopt nature-inclusive metrics and disclosure. They also advocated for collaboration across sectors and stronger governmental leadership to integrate natural asset values into decision-making and encourage private-sector investments through clear standards and policies.

The overarching message was clear: early action on addressing nature-related risks and opportunities will build long-term resilience, mitigate reputational and operational risks, and unlock economic benefits.

Speakers:

• Joanna Eyquem, Managing Director, Climate-Resilient Infrastructure, Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation
• Lorraine Audsley, former CRO and Chief Sustainability Officer, Export Development Canada
• Gildas Poissonnier, Chief Sustainability Officer, Desjardins Group
• Bertrand Millot, Head of Sustainability, CDPQ

Moderator: Audrie Chad, Director, Research

Resources:

World Economic Forum Reports

TNFD (Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures)

International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) Draft Standards