Mangal Shetty is a nature business entrepreneur committed to creating "Businesses for Nature" that support and regenerate natural ecosystems. As the Founder of Panchabhuta Conservation Foundation and Biogen Wellness, he has pioneered nature-positive ventures in responsible tourism, sustainable construction, and natural cosmetics. With a decade of research in the Aghanashini ecosystem, he launched India's first Startup Studio for nature-based businesses. Mangal actively collaborates with the Karnataka government on coastal tourism policies, and projects and is a member of the BMW Foundation's Responsible Leaders network, advocating nature-positivity as a model for economic growth. 
 
Wion catches up with Mangal Shetty to learn more about his work in conservation, sustainability and tourism.&nbsp;

1. Tell us more about your work conserving the Aghanashini mangrove forest in Karnataka and its impact on local biodiversity and communities.&nbsp; 
 
Our work in the Aghanashini mangrove forest is not just about conservation, it’s about creating a balanced ecosystem where nature and the community coexist. We’ve conducted multiple assessments on nature capital here, ensuring we understand the true value of this biodiverse wetland. By halting harmful projects and playing a key role in securing the Ramsar designation for the region, we’ve safeguarded this ecosystem. As a wetland of international importance, it will now receive increased protection and become eligible for international funding for conservation efforts.&nbsp; 
 
2. As someone from a background in Finance, what inspired you to transition into Environmental Conservation and Responsible Tourism?&nbsp; 
 
I have always been marveled by the wonders of nature. Nothing gives me more joy than being in the natural world. Nature is the very foundation of our traditions, culture, economy, and lifestyle. At a deeper level, I felt a calling to protect and work with nature, seeking models that allow us to do business in harmony with the environment while conserving it. I believe there is immense potential for profit in nature-positive economic models, especially when we incorporate technology, science, innovation, and inclusivity. This approach not only sustains natural ecosystems but also drives growth. The experiences I've gained from starting and growing business ventures, along with creating value, have become invaluable as I embark on this new path of entrepreneurship and stewardship in nature.&nbsp; 
 
3. What is your vision for supporting the Government of Karnataka's tourism strategy, particularly in fostering sustainable and nature-conscious tourism along the coast?&nbsp; 
 
The Government of Karnataka’s vision for tourism highlights the immense potential for developing thematic tourism hubs across the state, especially along the coast, where ecotourism, beach tourism, experiential tourism, geo tourism, and gastronomic experiences can thrive. While the opportunities are vast, it’s crucial to turn this vision into action by establishing a framework for accountability, building core infrastructure from the ground up, promoting ease of doing business, and embedding nature-conscious principles into every aspect of development. My vision is to collaborate with the government in policy development, facilitating ease of doing business, attracting sustainable investments and creating a startup studio platform to nurture nature-conscious ventures that contribute to the tourism supply chain, driving sustainable growth in the region.&nbsp; 
 
4. You founded Panchabhuta Retreat in Karnataka as a 'Business for Nature.' Can you expand on what this means and how it aligns with your sustainability vision?&nbsp; 
 
Panchabhuta Retreat was born from our research on the Aghanashini ecosystem, where we saw an opportunity to build something beyond just a business—a retreat that gives back to nature, inspires responsible choices, and reconnects people with the natural world. Every detail from construction materials to food sourcing, reflects our commitment to environmental harmony. At the heart of our philosophy is the belief in 'Business for Nature' and 'Nature for Business'—a reality that businesses can no longer afford to overlook nature. Sustainability must be woven not just into operations but into core business strategies. By protecting nature, businesses unlock long-term value creation, economic benefits and opportunities across industries that depend either directly or indirectly on natural resources and ecosystem services.&nbsp; 
 
5. What unique sustainability measures has Panchabhuta Retreat adopted that set it apart from other eco-friendly properties?&nbsp; 
 
At Panchabhuta, love for nature guides everything we do, and sustainability isn’t an add-on, it’s at the very core of our design and business model. We don’t believe in mass, unsustainable construction but instead embrace a boutique approach that minimizes environmental impact while allowing us to provide personalized experiences for our guests. We are also selective about whom we host, ensuring that our guests align with our principles, and we take great care to educate every visitor about the importance of Responsible Travel &amp; Consumption. Our commitment to nature positivity and regeneration goes further with initiatives such as growing some of our own food and implementing a zero-plastic policy. At our restaurant, A’KA, we source only locally and naturally grown ingredients, ensuring minimal food miles, and we avoid buffet spreads to minimize food wastage. We also practice waste management through composting, and we don't offer takeaways to minimize packaging waste and avoid the use of plastic. Our furniture is crafted from local wood and reclaimed items, and we've partnered with architects and local artisans to build structures that naturally regulate temperature, reducing energy consumption.&nbsp;

Mangal Shetty is a nature business entrepreneur committed to creating "Businesses for Nature" that support and regenerate natural ecosystems. As the Founder of Panchabhuta Conservation Foundation and Biogen Wellness, he has pioneered nature-positive ventures in responsible tourism, sustainable construction, and natural cosmetics.

Mangal Shetty is a nature business entrepreneur committed to creating "Businesses for Nature" that support and regenerate natural ecosystems. As the Founder of Panchabhuta Conservation Foundation and Biogen Wellness, he has pioneered nature-positive ventures in responsible tourism, sustainable construction, and natural cosmetics. With a decade of research in the Aghanashini ecosystem, he launched India's first Startup Studio for nature-based businesses. Mangal actively collaborates with the Karnataka government on coastal tourism policies, and projects and is a member of the BMW Foundation's Responsible Leaders network, advocating nature-positivity as a model for economic growth. Wion catches up with Mangal Shetty to learn more about his work in conservation, sustainability and tourism. 1. Tell us more about your work conserving the Aghanashini mangrove forest in Karnataka and its impact on local biodiversity and communities. Our work in the Aghanashini mangrove forest is not just about conservation, it’s about creating a balanced ecosystem where nature and the community coexist. We’ve conducted multiple assessments on nature capital here, ensuring we understand the true value of this biodiverse wetland. By halting harmful projects and playing a key role in securing the Ramsar designation for the region, we’ve safeguarded this ecosystem. As a wetland of international importance, it will now receive increased protection and become eligible for international funding for conservation efforts. 2. As someone from a background in Finance, what inspired you to transition into Environmental Conservation and Responsible Tourism? I have always been marveled by the wonders of nature. Nothing gives me more joy than being in the natural world. Nature is the very foundation of our traditions, culture, economy, and lifestyle. At a deeper level, I felt a calling to protect and work with nature, seeking models that allow us to do business in harmony with the environment while conserving it. I believe there is immense potential for profit in nature-positive economic models, especially when we incorporate technology, science, innovation, and inclusivity. This approach not only sustains natural ecosystems but also drives growth. The experiences I've gained from starting and growing business ventures, along with creating value, have become invaluable as I embark on this new path of entrepreneurship and stewardship in nature. 3. What is your vision for supporting the Government of Karnataka's tourism strategy, particularly in fostering sustainable and nature-conscious tourism along the coast? The Government of Karnataka’s vision for tourism highlights the immense potential for developing thematic tourism hubs across the state, especially along the coast, where ecotourism, beach tourism, experiential tourism, geo tourism, and gastronomic experiences can thrive. While the opportunities are vast, it’s crucial to turn this vision into action by establishing a framework for accountability, building core infrastructure from the ground up, promoting ease of doing business, and embedding nature-conscious principles into every aspect of development. My vision is to collaborate with the government in policy development, facilitating ease of doing business, attracting sustainable investments and creating a startup studio platform to nurture nature-conscious ventures that contribute to the tourism supply chain, driving sustainable growth in the region. 4. You founded Panchabhuta Retreat in Karnataka as a 'Business for Nature.' Can you expand on what this means and how it aligns with your sustainability vision? Panchabhuta Retreat was born from our research on the Aghanashini ecosystem, where we saw an opportunity to build something beyond just a business—a retreat that gives back to nature, inspires responsible choices, and reconnects people with the natural world. Every detail from construction materials to food sourcing, reflects our commitment to environmental harmony. At the heart of our philosophy is the belief in 'Business for Nature' and 'Nature for Business'—a reality that businesses can no longer afford to overlook nature. Sustainability must be woven not just into operations but into core business strategies. By protecting nature, businesses unlock long-term value creation, economic benefits and opportunities across industries that depend either directly or indirectly on natural resources and ecosystem services. 5. What unique sustainability measures has Panchabhuta Retreat adopted that set it apart from other eco-friendly properties? At Panchabhuta, love for nature guides everything we do, and sustainability isn’t an add-on, it’s at the very core of our design and business model. We don’t believe in mass, unsustainable construction but instead embrace a boutique approach that minimizes environmental impact while allowing us to provide personalized experiences for our guests. We are also selective about whom we host, ensuring that our guests align with our principles, and we take great care to educate every visitor about the importance of Responsible Travel & Consumption. Our commitment to nature positivity and regeneration goes further with initiatives such as growing some of our own food and implementing a zero-plastic policy. At our restaurant, A’KA, we source only locally and naturally grown ingredients, ensuring minimal food miles, and we avoid buffet spreads to minimize food wastage. We also practice waste management through composting, and we don't offer takeaways to minimize packaging waste and avoid the use of plastic. Our furniture is crafted from local wood and reclaimed items, and we've partnered with architects and local artisans to build structures that naturally regulate temperature, reducing energy consumption.

Meet Mangal Shetty who is conserving the Aganashini mangrove forest in Karnataka

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