Multi-level natural capital implementation within planetary boundaries

Abstract

In this conceptual paper, we examine current theories of natural capital approach implementation and identify areas where further research is needed to help humanity live within planetary boundaries. Natural capital and ecosystem service approaches offer an advanced understanding of Earth's life-support systems and their interaction with human well-being at multiple scales, particularly organizations. The insights they offer are present in conservation and accounting literature but are not yet reflected in corporate environmental sustainability literature, a gap this paper seeks to bridge. Without considering scale, it is difficult to understand how micro (individual) and meso (organizational or national) actions contribute to global goals (planetary boundaries). We suggest a multi-level natural capital implementation framework for corporate environmental sustainability and explain how it can advance natural capital implementation by including scoping and monitoring phases and increasing awareness of natural resource dependencies and how it advances multi-level environmental management theory.