This report seeks to explore the current status of mainstreaming biodiversity into production sectors — in theory and in practice. It first explores a number of key concepts of biodiversity mainstreaming. Then a review of the literature reveals that while the literature on mainstreaming continues to evolve and improve, its development is hampered by an inconsistent use of terminology and approaches. The report concludes that an empirical framework is needed, as well as more and better ‘stories’ that will allow the narrative will change.