Abstract

Interpreting the Evolution of Natural Capital through
Indicators and Standardization:
Global Trends and Implications for Forests and Land Use in Japan

Ryo KOHSAKA

Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo

 As the concept of Nature Positive gains global prominence, indicators and standardization have become central mechanisms through which natural capital is assessed, governed, and mobilized. Discussions on biodiversity measurement now extend beyond the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to encompass a wide range of international initiatives, including IPBES, nature-related financial disclosure frameworks, and emerging biodiversity credit schemes. Each of these approaches reflects different objectives, assumptions, and trade-offs between scientific rigor, comparability, and practical applicability. This presentation provides an integrated overview of current debates on indicators and standardization related to natural capital, with particular attention to forests and land-use systems. It examines how indicators are used to capture ecological conditions and change, translate complex ecological processes into decision-relevant information, and support policy, corporate, and financial actions. Finally, the lecture discusses implications for Japan, highlighting key challenges and opportunities in aligning domestic Nature Positive initiatives with evolving international discourses on measurement, evaluation, and standard-setting.