MERLIN Properties Annual Report 2022

104 | Annual report | 2022 Protection of biodiversity GUIDING PRINCIPLES As part of its objective in the field of sustainability, MERLIN’s Board of Directors approved the Biodiversity Policy in 2022 with the aim of establishing a reference framework to integrate the protection and promotion of biodiversity into the Group’s strategy, and to define the guiding principles for developing a sustainable and positive business model with nature, so that its activities protect and promote the development and growth of natural heritage, including, in particular, the protection of animals. The degradation of ecosystems and the unprecedented decline of biological diversity, unanimously identified by the scientific community as a direct consequence of the impact of human activities, entail serious environmental, economic and social risks, urging action to reverse biodiversity loss. The Group is committed to assuming a leadership position in the conservation and promotion of biodiversity in its sector of activity and to integrating the United Nations 2050 vision “Living in harmony with nature” into its management, where biodiversity is valued, conserved, restored and used sustainably, maintaining ecosystem services, supporting a healthy planet and delivering benefits essential for all people. Integrate biodiversity into the Group’s internal strategic planning and decision- making processes, and into the analysis, management and reporting of long-term risks. • Identify, quantify and evaluate, on an ongoing basis and throughout the life cycle of the assets, the impacts and dependencies of the activities on natural capital, including the diversity and protection of wild animals, and protected and vulnerable species, respecting them in all lines of action. • Protect species and habitats, both those under threat and those of high biodiversity value, through the adoption of preventive, minimising and enhancing measures. • Manage and offset in quantity and quality the negative impacts produced on the environment, giving priority to nature-based solutions, facilitating the connectivity of populations and encouraging the development of specially protected areas or private conservation. • Promote knowledge of and training in biodiversity for the Group’s employees and suppliers.