Guiding principles and first set of operational indicators for measuring progress towards the Nature Positive Economy

The framework introduced in this document responds to a critical need: despite a rapidly
growing interest in “nature positive,” existing measurement tools remain fragmented and often
focus on single sectors, individual actors, or specific environmental dimensions. The GoNP!
framework instead attempts to provide a unifying structure that connects ecological, social,
and economic dimensions under a strong sustainability approach, which assumes that natural
capital and ecological functions are non-substitutable and must be maintained as binding
constraints on social and economic development. It also aligns with and builds upon
established scientific and policy frameworks, including the Global Biodiversity Framework,
IPBES assessments, planetary boundaries research, and the emerging landscape of nature-related disclosure and target-setting initiatives targeted at the private sector.

At the core of the framework is a consolidated set of Guiding Principles describing what
progress towards a NPE looks like, how transformation should occur, and the
procedural conditions required to ensure a just, inclusive, and accountable transition.
The two outcomes of a NPE are the Full recovery of nature, which necessitates maintaining
and restoring the integrity and resilience of all ecosystems to achieve a net-positive trend to
the point of full recovery, and ensuring Prosperity for all, where economic gains increase
equitably with nature, leaving no one behind. Achieving this demands a profound shift
articulated in three transformative pillars: Respecting ecological limits by confining production
and consumption within planetary boundaries; to Transform economic systems for nature and
equity by tackling the root drivers of biodiversity loss across political, financial, and social
systems; and Ensuring a social foundation by securing basic human rights and life essentials
for all. These principles are strictly governed by Procedural requirements that mandate
Accountability, Recognize the role of every actor, require Measuring progress at all scales,
Drive systemic change in sectors most responsible for biodiversity loss, and Acknowledge
diverse values and worldviews.