Climate Tech Literature Review

The Climate Tech Literature Review synthesises evidence on how mobile and digital technologies contribute to climate mitigation, adaptation and resilience, and environmental and natural resource management in low- and middle-income countries. Drawing on a systematic review of approximately 140 empirical studies (from nearly 600 screened), the report examines what works, for whom and under what conditions.

The evidence highlights that digital tools can improve access to information, enable better decision-making and support more climate-adapted practices, particularly at the household and community level. However, impact is often incremental rather than transformational, with outcomes shaped by broader factors such as governance, inclusion, access to infrastructure and resources, and political economy dynamics.

The report identifies critical gaps in evidence and practice, including limited focus on systemic change, uneven access to digital technologies, gender disparities and the need for more inclusive, participatory and multi-stakeholder approaches. It provides key insights to guide future investment, programme design and policy development in climate tech.