ADEME’s “Assessing low Carbone Transition” method: a basic approach for INRAE’s low-carbon strategy

Abstract

To contribute to national and European climate targets, INRAE has adopted and adapted the “ACT Step by Step” (Assessing Low Carbon Transition) method, developed by ADEME, to its research activities. This approach enables the institution to build a robust low-carbon strategy based on a comprehensive diagnostic, broad staff engagement, and prospective modelling. The initial assessment, based on the 2019 and 2022 greenhouse gas inventories (BEGES), identified six analytical axes covering both internal operations and INRAE’s influence potential. More than 600 staff members contributed over 1,500 proposed actions, which were consolidated into emissions reduction scenarios for 2050. These scenarios were simulated using a modelling tool incorporating the identified levers and reference trajectories from the French National Low-Carbon Strategy (SNBC), the Science-Based Target initiative (SBTi), and the European Green Deal. A target trajectory was established aiming for a 70% reduction in emissions by 2050. The identified levers were evaluated based on feasibility, impact, acceptability, and implementation capacity. The final action plan, to be published in 2025, will include these prioritized measures. This pioneering effort provides a replicable methodological framework for other research institutions. It highlights the importance of a systemic, participatory, and adaptive approach to effectively embed low-carbon transition into the core missions of public research.