Jonne Velthuis

About Jonne Velthuis

I work on utilizing nature in solving societal problems.

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In brief

I work on projects that leverage nature’s power to address societal challenges. My approach is grounded in reliability, commitment, initiative, and organization.

To me, nature is essential. It provides fresh air, clean water, raw materials, food, health benefits, and opportunities for rest and relaxation. Nature brings happiness and joy and protects us from diseases, pests, drought, and extreme weather. With a broad background in business management, I have long been involved in sustainable business, the Sustainable Development Goals, and impact management. To deepen my understanding, I am currently taking a basic ecology course to better grasp terms like biodiversity and natural processes. I have also started ecological fieldwork.

Nature’s qualities make it an incredible—and increasingly necessary—investment, yet we’re not investing enough in it. In my projects, I focus on valuing scenic qualities and green-blue solutions, making their social business cases clear, and securing their funding and financing.

I apply this approach to projects related to nature development, climate adaptation, housing, recreation, health, and more.

For me, the greatest challenge in these projects lies in addressing interconnected topics and finding ways to (re)value nature financially. I see the need for an integrated approach reflected in the growing demand for ecologists, even outside nature organizations, to help integrate nature into business operations and business strategies. Nature organizations, in turn, seek expertise on multi-functional land use and combined purposes to make nature development financially viable. Valuing nature means increasingly factoring ecological values into economic decisions. By seamlessly navigating these areas, I help ensure a truly integrated approach.

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