Proving climate impact: a scientific method

Fighting climate change demands more than ambition. It demands proof. In a world flooded with bold claims, the CATAL1.5°T Climate Impact Assessment Framework offers something far more valuable: verifiable data on what really works.

At the heart of the framework lies Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) – a rigorous, internationally recognized scientific method that evaluates the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of climate innovations compared to conventional alternatives. Rather than focusing on isolated impacts, it systematically maps the entire life cycle of a product or service: from raw material extraction and manufacturing to transportation, use, and finally, disposal or recycling.

This holistic approach ensures that no emissions are overlooked. By adhering to well-established standards like ISO, the framework delivers consistent, trustworthy results –- providing the clarity investors and innovators need to make informed decisions.

The CATAL1.5°T Climate Impact Assessment Framework

But measuring climate impact is only the beginning. What makes this process particularly valuable is that entrepreneurs aren't left to navigate this complex terrain alone. They receive comprehensive training by Climate KIC experts in impact assessment and LCA methods – through workshops, mentoring sessions, and individual coaching from experienced impact specialists. As a result, ventures gain both the technical expertise and the confidence to quantify their innovations' emissions reductions, analyze their carbon footprints, and identify opportunities for improvement. Once their assessments are complete, independent third-party LCA experts validate the data – ensuring credibility and transparency in the reported climate benefits.

Importantly, the framework goes beyond measuring emissions. It helps ventures explore the broader transformation their solutions can create. By identifying the potential for a systems shift, they learn to express how their innovation can influence entire value chains or even reshape whole industries. At the same time, the framework brings attention to resilience co-benefits by showing how their work supports communities and ecosystems in coping with the increasing challenges of climate change.

This broader perspective is already showing results.

Measurable results, tangible impact

During a recent Demo Day in Latin America, ten ventures from Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru presented their climate solutions –- backed by validated impact assessments. Together, they are projected to avoid more than 100 kilotons of CO₂ equivalent within the next year alone, based on expected sales and the emissions their solutions help reduce compared to conventional alternatives. These ventures do more than innovate; they bring practical, climate-friendly alternatives into real markets. One example is Rematech. By offering refurbished laptops, they significantly cut emissions compared to the production of new devices.

The approach is not limited to one region. In West Africa, the Togolese start-up RECYCLING offers another strong example of how the framework can guide transformation. “Our approach is about creating a sustainable cycle for waste. Aligning our operations with the climate goals of the programme has truly transformed how we view our impact,” says founder Bekounim Tchomela N'yabé. With guidance from Climate -KIC experts and the use of LCA tools, the company refined its approach to sustainable waste management – translating insight into tangible environmental and community benefits.

CATAL1.5°T aims to raise 35 million euros in venture capital by 2029 and cut 230,000 tons of CO2 equivalent. If the supported start-ups succeed and conditions stay favourable, the long-term impact could be massive: up to 58 million tons of CO2 saved and hundreds of millions in venture capital unlocked over the next 20 years.

Expanding science-based climate assessment is next

As more ventures adopt this rigorous method, the pathway to a net-zero future becomes clearer – driven by tangible, measurable impact. But scaling this transformation requires more than technology; it requires shared knowledge.

To amplify collective impact, CATAL1.5°T will soon publish a comprehensive guide to its Climate Impact Assessment Framework. This practical handbook, complete with case studies and step-by-step implementation guidance, will equip more innovators with the tools to measure, validate, and maximize their climate contributions.

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