Most firms see climate tech as crucial, only a few back it with budget: ACCA report

Even as 66% of organisations believe climate technology is or will become essential to achieve sustainability goals, only 21% have earmarked funds within existing budgets while another 21% plan to do so over the next two-three years, said a report by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

The report, ‘The Climate Tech Forecast’, released ahead of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 30) next month, highlights a readiness gap between awareness and action. While 15% of organisations invest with a clear financial or strategic rationale, 42% are making cautious investments and 21% are focused on non-financial returns such as environmental, social and governance (ESG) outcomes and brand value.

Energy efficiency, carbon compliance and sustainable supply chains are currently driving adoption, while green finance, carbon offsetting and climate risk planning are emerging as strategic priorities.


Md. Sajid Khan, director – India at ACCA, said that climate technology investments often come with “high upfront costs, long payback periods and benefits that are more environmental or strategic than immediately financial”. He added that the real return lies in strengthening resilience, reducing long-term risk and creating sustainable value in the shift to a low-carbon economy.

ACCA is a global body for professional accountants with more than 257,900 members in 180 countries.

The research found that poor data quality remains the single biggest barrier to adoption, with 72% of organisations citing fragmented or inconsistent information, weak governance or lack of knowledge. Even among those collecting data, 20% said they were unable to interpret results and 15% were unable to measure return on investment from climate-related measures.

Khan said that finance teams and accountants have a crucial role in ensuring such investments are understood and measured effectively. “By tackling the data crisis head-on, accountants can help organisations see beyond quick returns and prove the measurable, long-term value of these essential technologies,” he said.

Government support is seen as a key enabler, with 77% of organisations calling for stronger policy backing, tax incentives and skills development to accelerate adoption. ACCA said combining robust data, strategic oversight and supportive public policy will be critical to scaling climate technology and driving sustainable value creation.