Redefining Conservation with Rich Stockdale
What if the key to saving our planet isn't choosing between profit and preservation, but reimagining how they work together?
CEO and Founder, Oxygen Conservation, Rich Stockdale
We want what we do to matter… when biodiversity was crumbling, we took action
In this final episode of our environmental leadership series, we meet Rich Stockdale, CEO of Oxygen Conservation, who is revolutionising the conservation sector by turning nature into a legitimate investment asset class.
From his early days throwing himself down waterfalls as a kayaker to leading a company managing a £100 million natural capital portfolio, Stockdale's journey challenges conventional thinking about conservation and commerce.
His company isn't just preserving land – they're transforming silent, degraded landscapes that have long been used as grouse moors or other ‘wasted land’ into vibrant biodiverse ecosystems. At the same time as proving that environmental restoration can be commercially viable.
This approach is controversial, especially by communities who want to buy land, but Rich is keen to share his vision of how communities can benefit from his approach both now and in the future.
Key Insights:
Nature as an Asset Class: Oxygen Conservation is creating a market for natural capital, targeting a billion-pound portfolio by 2030
Smart Land Selection: By focusing on marginal lands rather than prime farmland, they avoid conflicts with food security while maximising environmental impact
Visible Transformation: Within three years, their sites evolve from "neon green bowling greens" to buzzing ecosystems teeming with wildlife
Job Creation: Contrary to critics' concerns, their model creates significantly more jobs than traditional land uses
Community Integration: Their approach emphasises public access and community engagement, opening up previously private estates
The interview also reveals deeply personal insights about leadership and purpose. Stockdale shares a powerful story about turning down a fast track to IPO to protect his family life, demonstrating that principled leadership sometimes means saying no to tempting opportunities.
Perhaps most inspiring is his team's commitment to professionalism in the environmental sector. By paying interns and maintaining high standards, they're attracting extraordinary talent and elevating the entire field. As Stockdale notes, "If we're not prepared to invest in ourselves, why on earth would anyone invest in us?"
His parting advice for making a difference? Make mindful choices in everything from purchasing to pension investments. Every decision moves the economy toward sustainability, proving that everyone can play a part in environmental restoration.
This episode offers a masterclass in how commercial success and environmental impact can align through clear vision, unwavering commitment, and smart execution.
It's a powerful reminder that making a difference can mean charting new paths, being commercially viable and staying true to your core values is still feasible.
So, sit back, listen and enjoy here
