What is a climate solution?

A science-based framework for climate solutions

The Climate Solutions Framework was developed by Exponential Roadmap Initiative in collaboration with Oxford Net Zeroand experts from industry, academia, and the financial sector. The purpose is to establish clear, science-based criteria for what can be considered a climate solution.

A climate solution is defined as a product or service that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared with the alternatives that dominate the market today. The framework also aims to reduce the risk of greenwashing by providing a common basis for assessing the climate contribution of different solutions.

Circularity and climate benefits

The extraction and processing of virgin raw materials account for a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions. Circular solutions therefore play an important role in the transition to a more resource-efficient society with lower climate impact.

By reusing, recycling, and returning materials to the circular economy, the need for new raw materials can be reduced while emissions are avoided across the value chain.

How is climate impact assessed?

The Climate Solutions Framework uses, among other methods, the concept of avoided emissions. It describes the potential amount of emissions that can be avoided when a circular solution replaces the need to extract and process new raw materials or produce virgin materials. This makes it possible to quantify and highlight the climate benefits of recycling, reusing, and returning resources to the economy.

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Climate Solutions Framework by Exponential Roadmap Initiative
Oxford Net Zero