Abstract: 

In this research seminar, Maria Pecoraro from the University of Jyväskylä presents the multidisciplinary research project BIODIFUL (Biodiversity Respectful Leadership). The project investigates leadership from the perspectives of individuals/consumers, society, and business operations. At the core of the project is the idea that halting biodiversity loss requires both top-down leadership that influences corporate practices and societal decision-making, as well as bottom-up grassroots leadership that changes consumption, behavior, and attitudes. Specifically, the project focuses on the food industry, tourism, and hospitality sectors. The BIODIFUL research project seeks solutions not only to halt biodiversity loss but also to reverse this trend and strengthen biodiversity in the long run. While there is knowledge on 'what' needs to be done to pursue transformative change, there is a knowledge gap in terms of 'how' to lead the change towards mainstreaming biodiversity-respectful activities. Addressing this knowledge gap is the main theoretical and practical focus of the BIODIFUL project. The root causes of biodiversity loss, such as habitat destruction, unsustainable use of wild species, climate change, pollution, littering of natural habitats, and the spread of invasive alien species to areas with human activities, are closely linked to unsustainable production and consumption practices (Dasgupta, 2021; Díaz et al., 2019; IPBES, 2019, 2020; UNEP, 2022). Overconsumption, overuse of natural resources, and harmful production practices pose a serious threat to biodiversity, thereby affecting the future of humanity and the planet.

We invite all those interested in consumer behavior, biodiversity, leadership, and sustainability to join the research seminar.

Join the seminar online.