Giving nature a say: why Scottish marine scientists appointed the ocean to their board

Giving nature a seat on corporate boards is taking shape in Scotland, where marine scientists have appointed the ocean as a trustee of the Scottish Association for Marine Science (Sams). In Oban, the 140-year-old organization began last month with a new initiative allowing the ocean to “have a say” in decisions affecting its future as an ecosystem. Director Nick Owens said the change reflects a shift from viewing nature as too large to be affected, toward acknowledging ethical decisions are often framed only from a human perspective. Sams created a role for the ocean on its board, joining a growing trend that includes Faith in Nature, which in 2022 became the first company to give nature a formal corporate vote. About 25 organizations have since followed in countries including the UK, France, Belgium, the US and Australia, and a French Green party MP proposed a law requiring nature representation on large companies’ boards.