Direct Impact Track

Step A3: Assess

the most important threats to mitigate

The Assess phase (A3) of the IUCN RHINO approach, aligned with TNFD’s LEAP framework, helps companies identify and prioritize nature-related risks and opportunities that are material to their operations. This phase builds on calibrated START scores to guide strategic action and stakeholder engagement for biodiversity conservation.

Understand where your organisation interfaces with nature

A3.1. Assessing the most important threats
A3.2. Stakeholder engagement and collaboration
A3.3. Recalculating baselines

Outcomes

  • A validated understanding of their material nature-related risks
  • A prioritized list of threats to mitigate for maximum impact
  • A collaborative foundation for delivering Nature Positive outcomes

A3.1. Assessing the most important threats

Companies begin by reviewing calibrated START results to pinpoint the most pressing threats. This includes:

  • Internal consultation with project managers and technical teams
  • Classifying threats based on whether they fall within the company’s sphere of influence or require collaboration
  • Considering seasonal species presence, especially for migratory species

Linking company actions to biodiversity threats helps assess associated risks and opportunities.

A3.2. Stakeholder engagement and collaboration

Effective biodiversity conservation often requires landscape-level coordination. Companies are encouraged to:

  • Share START results with stakeholders — governments, NGOs, Indigenous Peoples, other businesses
  • Validate findings and explore joint action plans
  • Align interventions with national conservation strategies (e.g., NBSAPs)
  • Use platforms like ISEAL’s Core Criteria for Mature Landscape Initiatives to guide collaboration

Workshops and webinars can facilitate dialogue on threat prioritisation and stakeholder roles in mitigation.

A3.3. Recalculating baselines

New insights from stakeholder engagement may lead to updates in threat assessments. These should be:

  • Used to recalculate the calibrated START score, forming a refined baseline for future monitoring and target-setting.

Proceed to Step A4

Prepare your action plan to address the most important biodiversity-related threats