OECD – Mission-Oriented Innovation Policies for Net Zero, Nov 2024

The OECD's November 2024 report, "Mission-Oriented Innovation Policies for Net Zero," examines how mission-oriented innovation policies (MOIPs) can support national greenhouse gas reduction goals. The study utilizes a unique database of 101 "net zero missions" and 17 in-depth case studies to assess the effectiveness of MOIPs compared to traditional Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policies. The findings indicate that while MOIPs promote broad, ambitious objectives, their strategies often lack clear focus, measurable targets, and systematic monitoring. The report emphasizes the need for stronger connections between STI authorities and scaling and deployment actors, as well as dedicated, multiannual funding and new financial mechanisms to attract private sector investment. It also highlights three main challenges: an overemphasis on technological innovation (STI Trap), weak influence on broader policy (Orientation Trap), and insufficient engagement with private resources (Policy Trap). The report concludes that a new generation of missions is required to more closely integrate a broader array of public and private actors and resources to drive transformative change and achieve national net zero targets.