THE NAT hosted its first event in New York to address a massive shortfall in nature financing.
Summary
- A new organization, THE NAT, is using cultural influence as a tool to address the significant funding shortfall for nature initiatives.
- Its inaugural New York gala brought together figures from entertainment and business to support this model, honoring Stella McCartney and conservationist Sylvia Earle.
- Funds from the event will be directed to specific projects by Conservation International, UNICEF, and Open Planet.
There is a $711 billion gap in the funding required for nature-positive initiatives. A new organization, THE NAT, has a specific strategy to address this: directing cultural capital toward the problem. Its first major effort was an inaugural gala in New York City on Sunday, held at the Classic Car Club Manhattan to coincide with the start of Climate Week and the UN General Assembly. The event was a test of this model in action.
“What began as a simple idea, to put culture at the heart of nature, and nature at the heart of culture, has brought us all here tonight,” said THE NAT’s Gail Gallie, defining the evening’s purpose.
The program centered on pairings of cultural figures to honor work in sustainability and conservation. Jane Fonda presented an honor to designer Stella McCartney, recognizing her work in ethical fashion. Billie Eilish recognized oceanographer Sylvia Earle for her advocacy for marine ecosystems. In another tribute, Sophie Hunter acknowledged the Indigenous leadership of Nemonte Nenquimo, who defends a highly biodiverse region of the planet.
The event’s guest list represented the coalition THE NAT aims to build. Harrison Ford spoke alongside activist Hindou Ibrahim about protecting nature, while Apple’s Lisa P. Jackson discussed the role of corporate innovation and partnership. Peter Seligmann, founder of Conservation International, was also honored for his long-term contributions to the field. Sabrina Elba, a board member for the organization, closed the evening with remarks on the power of personal stories to connect people to environmental action.
The funds raised are intended for tangible outcomes. Proceeds will support forest restoration, marine ecosystem protection, and youth education programs through Conservation International, UNICEF, and Open Planet. The initiative drew support from a cross-section of industries, with backers including The Climate Pledge (Amazon), Deloitte, Salesforce, L’Oréal, and Spotify.
