Description
The Environmental eXernalities ACccounting Tool (EX-ACT), known previously as the EX-Ante Carbon Balance Tool, provides decision-makers with the information necessary for the development of activities in support of international climate commitments and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The current version of the tool assesses greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and potential carbon sequestration from planned, ongoing or completed agrifood activities. EX-ACT has a broad scope, covering various agricultural sub-sectors, such as forestry, land use, coastal and inland wetlands, fisheries and aquaculture, the use of various agricultural inputs, and the construction of agricultural infrastructures.
Technology
EC-ACT is available as a web-app with a geospatial feature. The web-tool is accessible after registration and is available in two languages. Users enter their project activity data to receive GHG estimates and annual carbon balances, and the application while features embedded tools that guide the user through the forms.
Target
EX-ACT has been created for project managers, policymakers, donors and implementing agencies involved in the measurement and reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from agrifood activities – whether planned, ongoing or completed. As of October 2024, the tool has been widely used within and outside FAO. The main users are international financial institutions such as the World Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and GEF. Countries designing and implementing investment initiatives in the agriculture sector can also benefit from the application, especially those seeking financing and demonstrate their mitigation impact. Farmers and producers associations can also make use of the application to assess the effect and feasibility of their projects and policies in the context of climate change mitigation.
Business model
The tool is maintained by FAO and can be used free of charge.
Impact
EX-ACT can support the identification of the climate mitigation outcomes of agricultural interventions; can aid countries (public and private sectors) in accessing funding from international financial institutions; strengthens the capacities of national and international stakeholders in estimating, monitoring and evaluating progress towards their emissions reduction goals; and supports policymakers in integrating climate change mitigation objectives into national strategies and international commitments, such as Nationally Determined Contributions or National Adaptation Plans.
Partners
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
Four Betters
Better production
Better environment
Better life
