The Biodiful Leadership Forum brought together experts, researchers, and decision-makers on May 22, 2025, to explore nature-respecting leadership from a variety of perspectives. The event featured a wide range of engaging presentations on the latest research findings and fostered insightful dialogue on how to build a future that honors biodiversity.
Senior Researcher Sanna Ahvenharju delivered a talk titled “Please Regulate Us”, highlighting the critical role of regulation in halting biodiversity loss. She argued that voluntary action alone is not enough; we need effective, forward-looking policies that steer society toward more sustainable, nature-respecting practices. Her research shows that citizens are in fact calling for stricter regulations to protect biodiversity.
Senior Researcher Natasha Järviö, in her presentation “Biodiversity Measurements in Support of Biodiversity-Respectful Leadership”, discussed recent developments in measuring biodiversity footprints. She reflected on how current methods could better capture not only what is done, but how it is done. Järviö emphasized that advancing biodiversity footprint measurement is key to supporting leadership that respects nature.
Professor Ilari Sääksjärvi, in his talk “Current Topics in Biodiversity”, provided an overview of pressing issues in the global biodiversity conversation, shedding light on the alarming state of nature as revealed by the latest research. He highlighted the IPBES nexus analysis, which explores the interdependence of nature, economy, and society. His talk ended on a hopeful note: with science, collaboration, and wise decisions, positive change is still within reach. He concluded with the message: “Peace for nature” a call for shared will and hope for the planet.
Associate Professor Tiina Onkila and Assistant Professor Anne Quarshie, in their joint presentation “Urgent Business Acts for Biodiversity”, stressed the responsibility of companies to act swiftly and concretely to support biodiversity. They argued that the biodiversity crisis demands more than stated goals; it requires real action. Their talk underscored the role of business, both in strategic leadership and value chain management, in safeguarding nature.
Doctoral Researcher Tanja Niemi and Researcher Saska Tuomasjukka, in their session “Food System of the Future”, explored how our food systems must transform to support biodiversity. They highlighted critical pain points and emphasized the need for collaboration across sectors. The food system of the future will require systemic change that accounts for both environmental impacts and social justice.
At the venue in Logomo, participants had the opportunity to experience the Nature Time Machine 5D, an immersive, interactive journey through the changes in nature over time. The experience powerfully blended technology, science, and art. Before the session, Researcher Matti Salo introduced the research behind the experience, offering insights into how nature’s evolution and transformations were studied to bring the concept to life.
In the forum’s closing remarks, professors Ilari Sääksjärvi and Satu Teerikangas summarized the day’s key takeaways, underscoring the crucial connection between leadership and biodiversity. They expressed gratitude for the inspiring talks and discussions, which demonstrated how science, business, and policy can come together to shape a biodiversity-respecting future. Their closing message: let’s continue to collaborate and act boldly for nature, now and in the years ahead. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, both in Logomo and via the livestream!
Photos: Hanna Oksanen
