Close to Market Research, Development and Innovation
Applied research and innovation activities that develop technologies, processes or products directly enabling substantial GHG emission reductions or climate adaptation.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation
As an enabling activity, the research and innovation must target solutions at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or above that directly enable substantial GHG emission reductions in other economic activities. The research programme must demonstrate a clear pathway from the innovation to deployable climate mitigation outcomes.
Qualifying areas include renewable energy technologies, energy storage, green hydrogen production, low-carbon industrial processes, carbon capture technologies, sustainable materials, circular economy processes, and nature-based solutions. The expected emission reduction potential must be quantified using a recognised methodology, and the innovation must not lock in high-carbon technologies or delay the transition to climate-neutral alternatives.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Adaptation
Where focused on adaptation, the research must develop solutions that materially reduce vulnerability to physical climate risks, based on climate projections consistent with IPCC AR6 scenarios.
DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation
Research facilities must be assessed for physical climate risks per Appendix A. Laboratory and pilot plant infrastructure must incorporate appropriate resilience measures.
DNSH: Water and Marine Resources
Research activities must manage water use efficiently. Pilot processes must not discharge pollutants into water bodies beyond permitted levels. Experimental chemicals must be handled to prevent environmental release.
DNSH: Circular Economy
Research must consider circularity principles in solution design. Laboratory waste must be minimised and managed in accordance with the waste hierarchy. Prototype materials must be recovered or recycled where feasible.
DNSH: Pollution Prevention and Control
Laboratories must comply with applicable environmental permits. Hazardous materials must be stored, handled, and disposed of in accordance with REACH, CLP, and hazardous waste regulations. Emissions from pilot facilities must be controlled within permit limits.