The 12th Annual BIOECON Conference "From the Wealth of Nations to the Wealth of Nature: Rethinking Economic Growth" was held from 27 to 28 September, 2010 in Venice, Italy.

The conference focus was on the identification of the most effective and efficient instruments for biodiversity conservation, such as auctions of biodiversity conservation contracts, payment-for-services contracts, taxes, tradable permits, voluntary mechanisms and straightforward command and control measures. Special attention was given to the role of public bodies/NGOs in the creation of innovative mechanisms for the delivery of ecosystem benefits and in promoting the participation of a wider range of economic agents (business/families/local communities) in biodiversity conservation. Policy reforms in specific sectors, including agriculture, urban planning and green buildings, fisheries, forests, industry, renewable energy, waste management and water, tourism and transport, focusing on the roles of each in green economic development were discussed. 

Particular attention was paid to analyses of the impacts and dependencies of different businesses on biodiversity and ecosystems, and the potential contributions of corporations to a more resource-efficient economy. The role of biodiversity as an employment generator was also addressed. Finally, a close look was taken at the beneficiaries of biodiversity and ecosystem services, exploring the potential use of these resources for poverty alleviation, and with examples of successful policies to this end.