Exploring the role of business in protecting biodiversity
Taking place at Leonard in Paris, the event will provide an opportunity to discuss the role of businesses in protecting biodiversity and transforming economic models. Through a range of complementary perspectives, speakers will explore the importance of biodiversity, the contribution of different stakeholders to ecological transition, the changing skills and professions required, and the practical steps businesses can take to turn environmental commitments into action.
Four complementary perspectives on biodiversity and business transformation
The discussion will bring together four speakers with complementary scientific, corporate and societal expertise:
- Marc-André Selosse, Professor at the French National Museum of Natural History (MNHN), will provide a scientific perspective on the fundamental role of biodiversity and the essential services provided by nature. He will also challenge the perceived opposition between economic development and ecology, exploring how natural systems of cooperation can inspire more resilient economic models.
- Nathalie Dubois, Secretary General of Fnac Darty, will discuss how businesses can embed biodiversity into their core activities, moving beyond the responsibility of dedicated CSR departments. She will address the importance of cross-functional collaboration, evolving professional roles and developing the environmental skills needed across organisations.
- Galitt Kenan, Director of the Jane Goodall Institute France, will bring the perspective of civil society and NGOs, highlighting the interdependence between human activities and living ecosystems. She will explore the importance of cooperation between scientists, businesses, public authorities and NGOs, as well as the shift from mitigating negative impacts to integrating ecological considerations into the design of products and services.
- Fabrice Dudragne, Environment and Innovation Director at VINCI Energies, will share practical insights into translating environmental ambitions into concrete action. He will address the challenges of measuring business impacts on biodiversity, defining relevant commitments and engaging the entire value chain in environmental initiatives.
From academic learning to real-world business challenges
This event builds on a collaborative learning project involving KEDGE Master's students and Fnac Darty. Supervised by Fiammetta Cascioli Karivalis and Jules Chaillé, students have been exploring how planetary boundaries and biodiversity considerations can be integrated into the wood and paper supply chain within the book industry.
The round table will extend these discussions beyond the classroom, bringing together students, business partners, scientists and representatives of civil society to share perspectives and explore practical solutions to today's environmental challenges.
By fostering dialogue between different stakeholders, KEDGE aims to contribute to a better understanding of the role businesses can play in protecting biodiversity and building more sustainable economic models.
Practical information
Date: 16 December 2026
Time: 4 pm – 6 pm
Venue: Leonard, VINCI Group's innovation platform, Paris 12th arrondissement
Format: Round table discussion followed by questions and answers with the audience
Contact: fiammetta.cascioli@kedgebs.com
How the MSc Business Transformation for Sustainability supports this vision
The MSc Business Transformation for Sustainability at KEDGE Business School prepares students to become future leaders of sustainable change. Through a learning-by-doing approach, the programme develops expertise in sustainable business models, responsible leadership, innovation and organisational transformation.
A programme designed for impact
By integrating sustainability challenges into business education, the MSc equips students with the strategic and operational skills needed to help organisations transition towards more responsible and sustainable practices.
Education for sustainable transformation
Watch the video featuring Fiammetta Cascioli Karivalis and discover how quality education can shape the sustainable leaders of tomorrow.
