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THE PROJECT
POSITIVE IMPACTS
METHODOLOGY

Majete Reserve

Community Development and Wildlife Conservation

Nourish and Enhance

Launched in 2011 under the umbrella of The Hunger Project, the Majete Reserve Project organizes local communities around the wildlife reserve to increase their food security, decrease poaching, increase health services, create eco-friendly economic activities, and enhance school attendance.

Contact:

Megan Nykyforchyn Clark,

Senior Director, New Business Development

megan.nykyforchyn-clark@thp.org

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Majete Reserve Project, Malawi, Community Members 2022 -Source - The Hunger Project, Pablo Sanchez
Majete Reserve Project, Malawi, Community Gathering - 2022 -Source - The Hunger Project, Pablo Sanchez
Majete Reserve Project, Malawi, Education and Technology, 2022 -Source - The Hunger Project, Pablo Sanchez
Majete Reserve Project, Malawi, 2022 -Source - The Hunger Project, Christin Tisitin
Ypbe and Elizabeth, Majete Reserve, Malawi - Source - The Hunger Project

Ecological Benefits Targets

The Majete Reserve Project works with The Hunger Project using an area-based strategy that focuses on uplifting village meetings that inspire people to envision a shared goal for their community. The community lays out the actions they will take to achieve their goals. Local volunteers are recruited and trained in nine thematic areas that align with government interventions and the Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteers become local experts on a specific theme and pass on their knowledge during home-visits, village gatherings and by being a role model.

Air

Communities were burning charcoal and cutting down trees in the game reserve prior to intervention. The project has dramatically improved air quality by moving wood production outside of the reserve.

Water

The project works with communities to drill bore holes for well water, to develop better hygienic practices, to build latrines, to dig rubbish pits, and to incorporate better food safety practices.

Soil

The project encourages communities to select ecologically-appropriate and nutritious plant species, to recycle agriculture waste as soil cover, and to apply organic compost and manure from livestock.

Biodiversity

The introduction of beekeeping practices and drastic reduction (nearly elimination) of poaching activity in the area has allowed the ecosystem rebalance as plant and animal populations recover.

Equity

The project creates equitable access to electricity, internet access, water, sexual reproductive services, and more. It also promotes women’s empowerment and the inclusion of people with disabilities.

Carbon

The introduction of solar power has decreased emissions from Malawi’s national grid. Where the park’s ecosystems have been restored and rebalanced, carbon has resumed natural cycling processes.

Community

Operation Location: Malawi
Traditional Name of Location: Majete
Area of Operation (hectares): 70000
Coordinates: Ea 85’V nam CUm 80’P
Communities: Chibwalizo Community
Land Tenure: The land of the reserve is owned by the government which delegates authority to the “Ministry of Lands” that then delegates rights to traditional leaders living on customary land. Traditional leaders have the power to oversee management and delegate authority to individual households who may lease the land and acquire a certificate to title the land. The land surrounding Majete is largely customary, belonging to the people, traditional leaders and heads of households for cultivating and living.

Project Development

Project Developer: The Hunger Project

The Epicenter Strategy of The Hunger Project has three essential foundational pillars:

1. Empowering women as key agents of change
2. Mobilizing entire communities into self-reliance
3. Fostering effective partnerships that engage local governments

As a symbol of their self-reliance, the community builds a physical infrastructure that hosts a clinic, food bank, library/computer room, meeting hall, microfinance office, skills center, and demonstration garden. The primary resources for the epicenter strategy come from the people themselves and by making local government resources more effective. When the epicenter has achieved self-reliance, it no longer needs support from The Hunger Project. The community is ready to run itself.

Stakeholders & Beneficiaries

Communities established in and around the reserve benefit from the project’s positive impacts, including: surrounding communities, women (who are a priority demographic), people with disabilities, park management, local Government, traditional authorities, local NGOs, flora and fauna. Neighboring communities and local governments have learned from the project’s community-led approach, and it hopes this knowledge will be applied elsewhere.

State of Development

Fully Operational

Project Launch

20110101

EBF Sector

Human

Project Type

Nourish and Enhance

Credit Type

Certificates

N/A

Data PrivaCy

Yes

# of annual credits produced

https://www.carbonicons.org/fingerprints/majete-reserve-project?background-hidden&overlay-hidden&no-blur

Air.

Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

The Majete Reserve Project actively works to mitigate charcoal production and burning for cooking purposes, which reduces major air pollutants and curtails associated greenhouse gas emissions. The project also reduces air pollution by encouraging locals to raise goats instead of hunting, which reduces the use of brushfires for hunting purposes. These actions result in cleaner, healthier air for both local communities and wildlife within the Reserve.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Agroforestry

Agroforestry

Practice

Land management practice that intentionally integrates trees and shrubs into farming systems to derive environmental and economic benefits (greater crop yield, increased biodiversity, etc.); can include hedgerows, windbreaks, and silvopasture.

X

Farmer-to-farmer training emphasize agroforestry techniques such as the management of woodlots, forests, and gardens that promote tree crops for food, fiber, forage, shade, and wildlife habitat.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Air Quality (improved)

Air Quality (improved)

Practice

Positive modifications to air quality achieved by controlling and reducing pollution levels, dust, particulate matter (PM) emissions, and by consistently monitoring overall quality.

X

The project has worked to mitigate the effects of charcoal burned for cooking to improve indoor and outdoor air quality by reducing particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions.

Trust

Self-Reported

Conservation

Conservation

Practice

The protection and preservation of natural environments from damage or destruction to safeguard biodiversity and ecological resilience.

X

The project provides communities with educational materials and programs that emphasize natural resource conservation within the reserve and in the managed landscapes that surround it.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Cover Cropping

Cover Cropping

Practice

Regenerative agricultural practice where specific crops are planted to improve soil health, fertility, and overall ecosystem resilience; typically grown between main crop seasons or in fallow periods to cover and protect the soil from erosion, nutrient loss, and weed growth.

X

The project facilitates farmer-to-farmer training and features improved farming techniques such as cover crops that increase soil health, reduce weeds, and minimize runoff.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Forest Management (improved)

Forest Management (improved)

Practice

Management practices that focus on strengthening or restoring forest ecosystems to increase carbon stocks and reduce GHG emissions; may also focus on reducing GHG emissions and biodiversity loss from forestry disturbance.

X

The project educates and empowers local communities to support forest conservation through a variety of training programs (e.g., agroforestry methods, woodlot planting) and educational activities.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Mulching

Mulching

Practice

Adding a protective layer of material on top of the soil (e.g., wood chips, compost, leaf litter, crop residues, etc.).

X

Farmer-to-farmer trainings promote improved farming techniques such as mulching that minimize weeds, maximize water retention, enhance soil fertility, and retain nutrients.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Natural Fertilizer (improved)

Natural Fertilizer (improved)

Practice

The development and use of organic or eco-friendly fertilizers that provide essential nutrients to plants while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

X

The project uses regenerative agriculture practices that maximize natural sources of fertility (e.g., animal manure, green manures) and utilize organic fertilizers instead of synthetic fertilizers.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Reforestation

Reforestation

Practice

The practice of planting an area with trees to contribute to ecological restoration efforts in former forest ecosystems.

X

The project plants trees in and around communities, including perennial tree crops that provide nutrient-rich foods, supporting community self-sufficiency and reduces pressure on wildlife reserves.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

The Majete Reserve Project ensures access to clean and reliable water as a fundamental concern, particularly in areas with low water supply systems. The project has learned that boreholes are a highly effective solution to this problem. Boreholes are strategically placed to ensure that communities have access to sufficient water throughout the year. Even when streams and shallow wells dry up,there is a steady supply of water, benefiting both humans and local ecosystems. This approach enhances water quality, availability, and sustainability.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Agroforestry

Agroforestry

Practice

Land management practice that intentionally integrates trees and shrubs into farming systems to derive environmental and economic benefits (greater crop yield, increased biodiversity, etc.); can include hedgerows, windbreaks, and silvopasture.

X

Farmer-to-farmer training emphasize agroforestry techniques such as the management of woodlots, forests, and gardens that promote tree crops for food, fiber, forage, shade, and wildlife habitat.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Boreholes and Water Wells

Boreholes and Water Wells

Practice

Cylindrical holes drilled into the ground by a machine (boreholes) or by hand (water wells) to access and extract water from underground aquifers; used to access water supply for domestic, agricultural, or industrial uses, among other uses.

X

The Project has learned that boreholes work well where water supply is low. The boreholes maintain sufficient water for communities throughout the year, even when streams and shallow wells dry up.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Hybridized (Outcomes- & Practices-based)

Hybridized (Outcomes- & Practices-based)

Practice

Projects or initiatives that combine both practices- and outcomes-based analyses to maximize the advantages of both approaches; practices-based methods tend to be highly efficient and cost-effective, while outcomes-based methods may provide more precise data on actual results.

X

While the impacts of some initiatives are readily measured and monitored, some practices with predictable incomes are assessed on the basis of fulfillment rather than on a complete set of data.

Trust

Self-Reported

Intercropping

Intercropping

Practice

Planting more than one type of crop in the same space; uses water, nutrient, and light resources more efficiently on-farm.

X

The project provides and emphasizes trainings in crop cultivation that may help farmers diversify their crops, harvest times, and incomes, and may also increase biodiversity and minimize pests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Natural Fertilizer (improved)

Natural Fertilizer (improved)

Practice

The development and use of organic or eco-friendly fertilizers that provide essential nutrients to plants while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

X

The project uses regenerative agriculture practices that maximize natural sources of fertility (e.g., animal manure, green manures) and utilize organic fertilizers instead of synthetic fertilizers.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Sanitation and Hygiene

Sanitation and Hygiene

Practice

The practices, facilities, and conditions that promote safe management of human waste, maintenance of cleanliness, and prevention of diseases in individuals and communities; encompasses various aspects related to the proper disposal of waste, access to clean water, and personal hygiene practices.

X

The project supports rural communities that lack basic necessities (clean water, health services, education, etc.) with infrastructure and knowledge to meet their own needs and close inequity gaps.

Trust

Self-Reported

Water Quality (improved)

Water Quality (improved)

Practice

Improvements to suitability of water for human uses; often through the reduction of pollutants or suspended sediments; frequently involves efforts to clean or restore groundwater resources.

X

The project trains local leaders in water management practices that preserve water quality by providing and protecting drinking water and by managing wastes materials from humans and livestock.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quality Monitoring

Water Quality Monitoring

Practice

Monitoring physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of a water source or environment; prevents transmission of harmful bacteria to humans, mortality events, and environmental degradation.

X

The project works with local committees to oversee that water is being managed well and that sanitary conditions are maintained to ensure safe water for drinking and hygiene purposes.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Practice

Compiling and communicating measured data on water quantity and availability; helps stakeholders (e.g., government agencies, water utilities, researchers, the public) evaluate the current status of water resources to identify trends and make informed water management and conservation decisions.

X

The project trains local leaders in water management practices such as drilling bore holes, sanitary disposal of wastewater, and methods for reducing use of water in agriculture.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Soil.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

The Majete Reserve Project places a strong emphasis on educating and engaging communities in the conservation of natural resources. This commitment extends not only to the relatively pristine environment within the reserve but also to the managed landscapes that provide essential resources for daily life. By promoting responsible land management practices, the project contributes to the preservation of soil health and the reduction of soil erosion and runoff, which can have a significant impact on water quality and the stability of local ecosystems.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Agroforestry

Agroforestry

Practice

Land management practice that intentionally integrates trees and shrubs into farming systems to derive environmental and economic benefits (greater crop yield, increased biodiversity, etc.); can include hedgerows, windbreaks, and silvopasture.

X

Farmer-to-farmer training emphasize agroforestry techniques such as the management of woodlots, forests, and gardens that promote tree crops for food, fiber, forage, shade, and wildlife habitat.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Conservation

Conservation

Practice

The protection and preservation of natural environments from damage or destruction to safeguard biodiversity and ecological resilience.

X

The project provides communities with educational materials and programs that emphasize natural resource conservation within the reserve and in the managed landscapes that surround it.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Cover Cropping

Cover Cropping

Practice

Regenerative agricultural practice where specific crops are planted to improve soil health, fertility, and overall ecosystem resilience; typically grown between main crop seasons or in fallow periods to cover and protect the soil from erosion, nutrient loss, and weed growth.

X

The project facilitates farmer-to-farmer training and features improved farming techniques such as cover crops that increase soil health, reduce weeds, and minimize runoff.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Forest Management (improved)

Forest Management (improved)

Practice

Management practices that focus on strengthening or restoring forest ecosystems to increase carbon stocks and reduce GHG emissions; may also focus on reducing GHG emissions and biodiversity loss from forestry disturbance.

X

The project educates and empowers local communities to support forest conservation through a variety of training programs (e.g., agroforestry methods, woodlot planting) and educational activities.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Intercropping

Intercropping

Practice

Planting more than one type of crop in the same space; uses water, nutrient, and light resources more efficiently on-farm.

X

The project provides and emphasizes trainings in crop cultivation that may help farmers diversify their crops, harvest times, and incomes, and may also increase biodiversity and minimize pests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Mulching

Mulching

Practice

Adding a protective layer of material on top of the soil (e.g., wood chips, compost, leaf litter, crop residues, etc.).

X

Farmer-to-farmer trainings promote improved farming techniques such as mulching that minimize weeds, maximize water retention, enhance soil fertility, and retain nutrients.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Natural Fertilizer (improved)

Natural Fertilizer (improved)

Practice

The development and use of organic or eco-friendly fertilizers that provide essential nutrients to plants while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

X

The project uses regenerative agriculture practices that maximize natural sources of fertility (e.g., animal manure, green manures) and utilize organic fertilizers instead of synthetic fertilizers.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Reforestation

Reforestation

Practice

The practice of planting an area with trees to contribute to ecological restoration efforts in former forest ecosystems.

X

The project plants trees in and around communities, including perennial tree crops that provide nutrient-rich foods, supporting community self-sufficiency and reduces pressure on wildlife reserves.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Soil Nutrient Analysis

Soil Nutrient Analysis

Practice

Measuring the nutrient levels in soil (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.) to assess availability and potential deficiencies.

X

Training programs and soil nutrient analyses help farmers understand how soil nutrients impact plant growth, soil health, and livestock nutrition, and how they can be used to optimize productivity.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Biodiversity.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Biodiversity conservation is another critical aspect of the Majete Reserve Project's efforts. The project goes beyond traditional conservation practices by actively supporting wildlife habitat. It achieves this by integrating agroforestry methods and planting woodlots for fuel, thereby creating additional habitat for wildlife. Education programs and community involvement play a vital role in strengthening these conservation efforts, ensuring that both the reserve and its surrounding landscapes are conducive to the coexistence of humans and wildlife.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Agroforestry

Agroforestry

Practice

Land management practice that intentionally integrates trees and shrubs into farming systems to derive environmental and economic benefits (greater crop yield, increased biodiversity, etc.); can include hedgerows, windbreaks, and silvopasture.

X

Farmer-to-farmer training emphasize agroforestry techniques such as the management of woodlots, forests, and gardens that promote tree crops for food, fiber, forage, shade, and wildlife habitat.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Biodiversity Monitoring

Biodiversity Monitoring

Practice

Establishing long-term monitoring programs to track changes in species populations, diversity, and ecosystem health over time.

X

Restoring forests and providing economic alternatives to poaching are contributing to increases in biodiversity, as documented through monitoring efforts by local citizens and outside experts.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Conservation

Conservation

Practice

The protection and preservation of natural environments from damage or destruction to safeguard biodiversity and ecological resilience.

X

The project provides communities with educational materials and programs that emphasize natural resource conservation within the reserve and in the managed landscapes that surround it.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Forest Management (improved)

Forest Management (improved)

Practice

Management practices that focus on strengthening or restoring forest ecosystems to increase carbon stocks and reduce GHG emissions; may also focus on reducing GHG emissions and biodiversity loss from forestry disturbance.

X

The project educates and empowers local communities to support forest conservation through a variety of training programs (e.g., agroforestry methods, woodlot planting) and educational activities.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Intercropping

Intercropping

Practice

Planting more than one type of crop in the same space; uses water, nutrient, and light resources more efficiently on-farm.

X

The project provides and emphasizes trainings in crop cultivation that may help farmers diversify their crops, harvest times, and incomes, and may also increase biodiversity and minimize pests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Poaching (decreased)

Poaching (decreased)

Practice

The prevention or reduction of illegal hunting or capturing of wildlife, particularly for commercial purposes or exploitation; involves implementing measures and strategies to deter poaching activities.

X

Providing alternative sources of income reduces reliance on poaching activities. Community-held bylaws punish poachers within their own communities and using their own social systems.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Reforestation

Reforestation

Practice

The practice of planting an area with trees to contribute to ecological restoration efforts in former forest ecosystems.

X

The project plants trees in and around communities, including perennial tree crops that provide nutrient-rich foods, supporting community self-sufficiency and reduces pressure on wildlife reserves.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quality (improved)

Water Quality (improved)

Practice

Improvements to suitability of water for human uses; often through the reduction of pollutants or suspended sediments; frequently involves efforts to clean or restore groundwater resources.

X

The project trains local leaders in water management practices that preserve water quality by providing and protecting drinking water and by managing wastes materials from humans and livestock.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quality Monitoring

Water Quality Monitoring

Practice

Monitoring physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of a water source or environment; prevents transmission of harmful bacteria to humans, mortality events, and environmental degradation.

X

The project works with local committees to oversee that water is being managed well and that sanitary conditions are maintained to ensure safe water for drinking and hygiene purposes.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Equity.

Supporting equity and inclusion fosters social justice, ensures equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promotes the well-being and participation of all, regardless of background or circumstances.

The Majete Reserve Project is focused on addressing issues of social equity. The project places a strong emphasis on ensuring access to essential needs and services for all members of the community and actively promotes disability inclusion. Education programs play a vital role in equipping communities with the knowledge and skills needed to transition to new land management techniques and explore new market opportunities, thereby reducing disparities and promoting social equity. They operate with the expectation that improved livelihoods and community well-being will ultimately reduce the level of need for external support over time. By fostering self-reliance and gradual poverty reduction, the project contributes to the overall well-being and sustainability of the communities it serves.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Boreholes and Water Wells

Boreholes and Water Wells

Practice

Cylindrical holes drilled into the ground by a machine (boreholes) or by hand (water wells) to access and extract water from underground aquifers; used to access water supply for domestic, agricultural, or industrial uses, among other uses.

X

The Project has learned that boreholes work well where water supply is low. The boreholes maintain sufficient water for communities throughout the year, even when streams and shallow wells dry up.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Disability Inclusion (increased)

Disability Inclusion (increased)

Practice

Practice of ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities, access, and participation in all aspects of society; involves creating inclusive environments, removing barriers, and promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of people with disabilities.

X

The project addresses access to essential needs and services for all members of the community and works to mainstream disability inclusion.

Trust

Self-Reported

Education Programs

Education Programs

Practice

Informative courses that provide training necessary for the advancement of an initiative's targeted objectives

X

Education programs provide a basis for helping communities make a gradual transition to new land management techniques and to new market opportunities.

Trust

Self-Reported

Empowered Participation

Empowered Participation

Practice

Transitioning to a more sustainable and just world to provide marginalized communities with fair representation, cultural consent, and full participation in the commensurate distribution of benefits from their activities and work.

X

Input from a diverse cross-section of participating communities is emphasized to ensure that current and future plans are culturally and contextually appropriate.

Trust

Self-Reported

Poaching (decreased)

Poaching (decreased)

Practice

The prevention or reduction of illegal hunting or capturing of wildlife, particularly for commercial purposes or exploitation; involves implementing measures and strategies to deter poaching activities.

X

Providing alternative sources of income reduces reliance on poaching activities. Community-held bylaws punish poachers within their own communities and using their own social systems.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Poverty (reduced)

Poverty (reduced)

Practice

Measures implemented to offer relief from extreme financial hardship and associated detriments to quality of life and general wellbeing; ideally, aid will provide enduring economic, social, political benefits in addition to poverty alleviation.

X

The project's focus on initiatives that link enhanced livelihoods and resilient ecosystems aims to gradually reduce poverty while gradually increasing self-reliance.

Trust

Self-Reported

Sanitation and Hygiene

Sanitation and Hygiene

Practice

The practices, facilities, and conditions that promote safe management of human waste, maintenance of cleanliness, and prevention of diseases in individuals and communities; encompasses various aspects related to the proper disposal of waste, access to clean water, and personal hygiene practices.

X

The project supports rural communities that lack basic necessities (clean water, health services, education, etc.) with infrastructure and knowledge to meet their own needs and close inequity gaps.

Trust

Self-Reported

Water Quality (improved)

Water Quality (improved)

Practice

Improvements to suitability of water for human uses; often through the reduction of pollutants or suspended sediments; frequently involves efforts to clean or restore groundwater resources.

X

The project trains local leaders in water management practices that preserve water quality by providing and protecting drinking water and by managing wastes materials from humans and livestock.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Women's Economic Empowerment

Women's Economic Empowerment

Practice

The increased capacity of women to participate in, contribute to, and benefit from economic resources and opportunities (e.g., jobs, financial services, property, skills development); increases ability to negotiate fairer distribution of benefits derived from economic growth.

X

The project facilitates workshops and social infrastructure to mobilize women as key agents of change and ensures women have seats on different committees to better clarify and address their needs.

Trust

Self-Reported

Carbon.

Carbon capture and storage plays a crucial role in tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all living beings.

The Majete Reserve Project's multifaceted approach to carbon management involves integrating sustainable land management practices, agroforestry, and community engagement. The Majete Reserve employs a strategy of transition to regenerative agricultural practices. By adopting regenerative farming techniques, carbon is sequestered in the soil through increased organic matter, which not only improves soil health but also acts as a long-term carbon sink. Moreover, the project's focus on agroforestry is instrumental in carbon management. The planting of trees and the maintenance of woodlots for fuel, food, and habitat within the project's purview serve as carbon reservoirs.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Agroforestry

Agroforestry

Practice

Land management practice that intentionally integrates trees and shrubs into farming systems to derive environmental and economic benefits (greater crop yield, increased biodiversity, etc.); can include hedgerows, windbreaks, and silvopasture.

X

Farmer-to-farmer training emphasize agroforestry techniques such as the management of woodlots, forests, and gardens that promote tree crops for food, fiber, forage, shade, and wildlife habitat.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Air Quality (improved)

Air Quality (improved)

Practice

Positive modifications to air quality achieved by controlling and reducing pollution levels, dust, particulate matter (PM) emissions, and by consistently monitoring overall quality.

X

The project has worked to mitigate the effects of charcoal burned for cooking to improve indoor and outdoor air quality by reducing particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions.

Trust

Self-Reported

Conservation

Conservation

Practice

The protection and preservation of natural environments from damage or destruction to safeguard biodiversity and ecological resilience.

X

The project provides communities with educational materials and programs that emphasize natural resource conservation within the reserve and in the managed landscapes that surround it.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Cover Cropping

Cover Cropping

Practice

Regenerative agricultural practice where specific crops are planted to improve soil health, fertility, and overall ecosystem resilience; typically grown between main crop seasons or in fallow periods to cover and protect the soil from erosion, nutrient loss, and weed growth.

X

The project facilitates farmer-to-farmer training and features improved farming techniques such as cover crops that increase soil health, reduce weeds, and minimize runoff.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Forest Management (improved)

Forest Management (improved)

Practice

Management practices that focus on strengthening or restoring forest ecosystems to increase carbon stocks and reduce GHG emissions; may also focus on reducing GHG emissions and biodiversity loss from forestry disturbance.

X

The project educates and empowers local communities to support forest conservation through a variety of training programs (e.g., agroforestry methods, woodlot planting) and educational activities.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Intercropping

Intercropping

Practice

Planting more than one type of crop in the same space; uses water, nutrient, and light resources more efficiently on-farm.

X

The project provides and emphasizes trainings in crop cultivation that may help farmers diversify their crops, harvest times, and incomes, and may also increase biodiversity and minimize pests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Mulching

Mulching

Practice

Adding a protective layer of material on top of the soil (e.g., wood chips, compost, leaf litter, crop residues, etc.).

X

Farmer-to-farmer trainings promote improved farming techniques such as mulching that minimize weeds, maximize water retention, enhance soil fertility, and retain nutrients.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Reforestation

Reforestation

Practice

The practice of planting an area with trees to contribute to ecological restoration efforts in former forest ecosystems.

X

The practice of planting an area with trees to contribute to ecological restoration efforts in former forest ecosystems.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Soil Nutrient Analysis

Soil Nutrient Analysis

Practice

Measuring the nutrient levels in soil (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.) to assess availability and potential deficiencies.

X

Training programs and soil nutrient analyses help farmers understand how soil nutrients impact plant growth, soil health, and livestock nutrition, and how they can be used to optimize productivity.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV)

Assessment targets for the Hunger Project’s Majete Reserve initiative arose through the project’s design. The Hunger Project consistently focuses on alleviating poverty and hunger, creating sustainable livelihoods, and building toward community self-reliance. The Majete project also adopted the Epicenter Strategy’s three pillars: empowerment of women, mobilization of communities toward self-reliance, and creation community-government partnerships.
Those efforts have had a direct and measurable impact on the ecosystem health of the adjacent Majete reserve. The reserve benefits when people can meet their physical needs without negatively impacting its protected habitats. While correlating data between the improvement of human and natural communities is difficult, both clearly benefited.

[Learn more about the challenges of measurement and equity]

Primary Measurement Methods

This overview is not an endorsement or recommendation and should not be used as the basis for any investment decision.

Measurement (M)

Description

Benefits

Reporting Method (R)

Verification Type (V)

Soil Nutrient Analysis

Trainings help farmers understand soil nutrients and how they impact plant growth, soil health, and livestock nutrition. Analysis of soil from different ecosystems and management regimes helps farmers understand how to optimize productivity.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Water Quality Monitoring

The project works with local committees to oversee that the water is being managed well and that sanitary conditions are maintained to ensure safe water for drinking and hygiene purposes.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Water Quantity and Availability Reporting

The project trains local leaders in practices to manage water resources through drilling bore holes, sanitary disposal of wastewater, and methods for reducing use of water in agriculture.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Socio-economic Data Surveys

The project and project participants have been consistently surveyed every few years to see changes in community leadership, hunger, poverty, education, health, and water. Data collected is shared publicly by The Hunger Project Epicenter Strategy.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Measurements

Since its inception in 2011, the Majete project has not only been clear and transparent about its goals, but those goals were generated through equitable participation in the planning process. Informed by the Hunger Project’s successes elsewhere, community leaders developed participatory processes to build consensus on project priorities for its initial five-year funding. Those priorities ultimately galvanized into six categories: community leadership, hunger, poverty, education, health, and water.

The project then developed baseline data for 2012 from existing averages and secondary sources and set a 2015 midline evaluation date and a 2018 final evaluation deadline. Project participants established impact indicators and targets for each category. The project fell short of its goals for poverty and slightly short of its goals for community leadership, hunger, and water, while equaling or exceeding its targets for education and health.

Additional qualitative data indicated that community members were particularly appreciative of farmer training, increased economic freedom for women, community healthcare improvements, and accessible, safe drinking water. All of these data provided insights into second-stage initiatives that are currently underway.

African Parks data provides the basis for monitoring the continued improvements within the boundaries of the reserve.

Reporting

The Dioraphte Foundation has provided financial support for data collection, analysis, and reporting of the project’s results. The reporting and dissemination of the initial 2012-2018 data provided critical insights into the increased self-reliance of the project’s communities. Simultaneously, African Parks documented and reported on the continued improvement of ecological conditions within the boundaries of the Majete Reserve. They reported reductions in poaching, underbrush burning, firewood harvesting, parkland grazing, and erosion. As a result, forests and grasslands rebounded and have provided significantly-improved habitat and nourishment for wildlife, including the megafauna that had virtually disappeared due to poaching and ecosystem degradation.

This coordinated reporting helped to document the integral relationship between the well-being of human communities and ecosystem health. Reporting and sharing this data locally, regionally, and internationally has provided much-needed documentation of the potential successes of projects designed to concurrently address human and ecosystem health. Additionally, the sharing of this data helps to convey not only the importance of embedding individual and community self-reliance into project design but also successful mechanisms for doing so.

Verification

Primary project funders have included the Dioraphte Foundation, the Fairnell Foundation, and TCR Airband (Microsoft). These philanthropic funders contractually require independent verification of the project’s impact data, as well as the sharing of that data within the communities, among project collaborators, and with the national government.

Risk

Risks for the Majete project stem from multiple variables. Economic instability is perhaps the most significant since the welfare of communities is integrally tied to the protection of surrounding ecosystems, both within and surrounding the reserve. Climate instability and extremes also pose direct and indirect challenges. Hunger and poverty are exacerbated by climate impacts, which in turn create socioeconomic conditions that lead to poaching, fuelwood extraction, and other problematic activities. Finally, if self-reliance goals are achieved, many of the preexisting conditions will likely return without continued philanthropic or government support.

The Majete project’s strongest mitigation strategy is probably its empowerment of local communities–particularly the women within those communities–and the continued training of leaders and workers who help provide and perpetuate livelihoods based on community development and ecosystem health.

Permanence

Permanence is best ensured by the project’s emphasis on individual and community self-reliance. In addition, the project’s emphasis on equitable participation in community governance and development provides a template for planning and governance that can sustain the efforts initiated by the project.

Additionality

The potential for additionality does not seem to pose a significant concern for the project.

Leakage

Leakage concerns have not been identified for the project.

Market

This project is funded solely through philanthropic and government sources. To date, no ecological benefit credits have been established.

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Interoperability

This pack focuses on the principles, standards, and components that enable different data systems, tools, and platforms to work together seamlessly. It includes concepts such as data harmonization, metadata standards, APIs, and system integration within CGIAR MELIAF ecosystems.

The pack supports the development of interoperable MELIA systems across programs and geographies, including integration with national systems such as those in Kenya. It is particularly useful to spread a mindset of collaboration and integration, allowing consistent data exchange between partners, improving efficiency, transparency, and comparability of results across projects.

35 Terms
Request Download

Alignment Maturity Level

IA, MEL

Alignment Maturity Level

Stage of development describing how well MELIAF standards, systems and practices are adopted and consistently applied, typically ranging from ad hoc use to fully embedded, continuously improved alignment. ​

[2804]

IA, MEL

Alignment Maturity Level

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Stage of development describing how well MELIAF standards, systems and practices are adopted and consistently applied, typically ranging from ad hoc use to fully embedded, continuously improved alignment. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2804]

Causal Alignment

F, IA, MEL

Causal Alignment

Consistency between ToCs, indicators, evaluations and impact models regarding how change is expected to occur, ensuring all MELIAF components reflect the same underlying causal logic. ​

[2802]

F, IA, MEL

Causal Alignment

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Consistency between ToCs, indicators, evaluations and impact models regarding how change is expected to occur, ensuring all MELIAF components reflect the same underlying causal logic. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Lex Icon Community
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[2802]

Causal Pathway

F, IA, MEL

Causal Pathway

Sequenced chain linking activities, outputs, outcomes and impacts, including intermediate changes and feedbacks, used to visualize and test how interventions are expected to generate results. ​

[2827]

F, IA, MEL

Causal Pathway

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Sequenced chain linking activities, outputs, outcomes and impacts, including intermediate changes and feedbacks, used to visualize and test how interventions are expected to generate results. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Lex Icon Community
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[2827]

CGIAR Results Framework

F, IA, MEL

CGIAR Results Framework

Structured hierarchy of impact areas, outcomes and outputs used to organize, monitor and report contributions, ensuring MELIAF data and evaluations align with agreed strategic results architecture. ​

[2820]

F, IA, MEL

CGIAR Results Framework

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Structured hierarchy of impact areas, outcomes and outputs used to organize, monitor and report contributions, ensuring MELIAF data and evaluations align with agreed strategic results architecture. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Lex Icon Community
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[2820]

Compliance

F, IA, MEL

Compliance

Conformance with agreed standards, protocols, procedures and governance rules that regulate how MELIAF data, indicators, models and evaluations are designed, implemented, shared and reported. ​

[2794]

F, IA, MEL

Compliance

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Conformance with agreed standards, protocols, procedures and governance rules that regulate how MELIAF data, indicators, models and evaluations are designed, implemented, shared and reported. ​

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Lex Icon Community
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[2794]

Contribution Logic

F, IA, MEL

Contribution Logic

Reasoned explanation of how an intervention influences observed changes, distinguishing contribution from attribution and drawing on evidence and counterfactual thinking in MELIAF. ​

[2829]

F, IA, MEL

Contribution Logic

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Reasoned explanation of how an intervention influences observed changes, distinguishing contribution from attribution and drawing on evidence and counterfactual thinking in MELIAF. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2829]

Controlled Vocabulary

F, IA, MEL

Controlled Vocabulary

Curated list of allowed terms and definitions for concepts, indicators, themes or tags, used to standardize language and reduce ambiguity in MELIAF data and documentation. ​

[2819]

F, IA, MEL

Controlled Vocabulary

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Curated list of allowed terms and definitions for concepts, indicators, themes or tags, used to standardize language and reduce ambiguity in MELIAF data and documentation. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2819]

Data Interoperability

F, IA, MEL

Data Interoperability

Capacity of datasets from different sources to be combined, compared and reused without manual rework, thanks to shared formats, identifiers, metadata, semantics and access protocols across MELIAF functions. ​

[2796]

F, IA, MEL

Data Interoperability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Capacity of datasets from different sources to be combined, compared and reused without manual rework, thanks to shared formats, identifiers, metadata, semantics and access protocols across MELIAF functions. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2796]

Design Alignment

F, IA, MEL

Design Alignment

Degree to which plans, ToCs, indicators, data standards and modules are intentionally specified to fit a common reference model, enabling coherent MELIAF implementation across projects and portfolios. ​

[2801]

F, IA, MEL

Design Alignment

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Degree to which plans, ToCs, indicators, data standards and modules are intentionally specified to fit a common reference model, enabling coherent MELIAF implementation across projects and portfolios. ​

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2801]

Evidence Traceability

F, IA, MEL

Evidence Traceability

Ability to follow reported figures, findings and claims back through models, analyses and datasets to original sources, enabling verification and strengthening credibility of MELIAF products. ​

[2812]

F, IA, MEL

Evidence Traceability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Ability to follow reported figures, findings and claims back through models, analyses and datasets to original sources, enabling verification and strengthening credibility of MELIAF products. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2812]

Governance Interoperability

F, IA, MEL

Governance Interoperability

Compatibility of mandates, decision rules, accountability arrangements and oversight processes that enables multiple institutions to jointly steward MELIAF data, standards and evaluations. ​

[2799]

F, IA, MEL

Governance Interoperability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Compatibility of mandates, decision rules, accountability arrangements and oversight processes that enables multiple institutions to jointly steward MELIAF data, standards and evaluations. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2799]

Integration

F, IA, MEL

Integration

Bringing together data, tools, workflows and governance arrangements so MELIAF activities function as a connected system rather than fragmented, stand‑alone components. ​

[2793]

F, IA, MEL

Integration

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Bringing together data, tools, workflows and governance arrangements so MELIAF activities function as a connected system rather than fragmented, stand‑alone components. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2793]

Interoperability

F, IA, MEL

Interoperability

Ability of diverse systems, processes, and actors to exchange, interpret, and use data, concepts, and insights so that monitoring, evaluation, learning, impact assessment and foresight activities operate as a coherent whole. ​

[2792]

F, IA, MEL

Interoperability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Ability of diverse systems, processes, and actors to exchange, interpret, and use data, concepts, and insights so that monitoring, evaluation, learning, impact assessment and foresight activities operate as a coherent whole. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2792]

Interoperability Building Blocks

F, IA, MEL

Interoperability Building Blocks

Foundational elements—standards, identifiers, schemas, APIs, governance rules and capacities—required to make MELIAF data, processes and tools connect, communicate and evolve together. ​

[2803]

F, IA, MEL

Interoperability Building Blocks

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Foundational elements—standards, identifiers, schemas, APIs, governance rules and capacities—required to make MELIAF data, processes and tools connect, communicate and evolve together. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2803]

Interoperability Cost Curve

F, IA, MEL

Interoperability Cost Curve

Relationship between level of interoperability achieved and the cumulative resources required, highlighting how early investment in standards and alignment can reduce marginal costs of connecting additional MELIAF systems. ​

[2795]

F, IA, MEL

Interoperability Cost Curve

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Relationship between level of interoperability achieved and the cumulative resources required, highlighting how early investment in standards and alignment can reduce marginal costs of connecting additional MELIAF systems. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2795]

Knowledge Graph

F, IA, MEL

Knowledge Graph

Networked representation linking entities, indicators, documents, ToC elements and outcomes via typed relationships, enabling MELIAF users and algorithms to explore and infer connections. ​

[2818]

F, IA, MEL

Knowledge Graph

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Networked representation linking entities, indicators, documents, ToC elements and outcomes via typed relationships, enabling MELIAF users and algorithms to explore and infer connections. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2818]

Machine-Readable Structure

F, IA, MEL

Machine-Readable Structure

Organization of data and documents into explicit, standardized formats that software can reliably parse, validate and process without manual intervention in MELIAF workflows. ​

[2815]

F, IA, MEL

Machine-Readable Structure

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Organization of data and documents into explicit, standardized formats that software can reliably parse, validate and process without manual intervention in MELIAF workflows. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2815]

Metadata Standard

F, IA, MEL

Metadata Standard

Agreed set of fields, formats and vocabularies describing datasets, indicators, models and documents so MELIAF assets are findable, understandable, and reusable by humans and machines. ​

[2808]

F, IA, MEL

Metadata Standard

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Agreed set of fields, formats and vocabularies describing datasets, indicators, models and documents so MELIAF assets are findable, understandable, and reusable by humans and machines. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2808]

Minimum Causal Alignment Standard

F, IA, MEL

Minimum Causal Alignment Standard

Baseline requirements for articulating ToCs, causal pathways, assumptions and evidence links so that MELIAF activities consistently express and test shared causal logic. ​

[2807]

F, IA, MEL

Minimum Causal Alignment Standard

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Baseline requirements for articulating ToCs, causal pathways, assumptions and evidence links so that MELIAF activities consistently express and test shared causal logic. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2807]

Minimum KPI Data Standard

F, IA, MEL

Minimum KPI Data Standard

Core structure, definitions, disaggregations and metadata required for key performance indicators to ensure comparability, integrity and machine‑readability across MELIAF systems. ​

[2806]

F, IA, MEL

Minimum KPI Data Standard

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Core structure, definitions, disaggregations and metadata required for key performance indicators to ensure comparability, integrity and machine‑readability across MELIAF systems. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2806]

Minimum Results Data Standard

MEL

Minimum Results Data Standard

Lean specification of variables, formats and metadata required for reporting results so that monitoring and evaluation data can be aggregated, compared and reused across initiatives.

[2805]

MEL

Minimum Results Data Standard

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Lean specification of variables, formats and metadata required for reporting results so that monitoring and evaluation data can be aggregated, compared and reused across initiatives.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2805]

Ontology

F, IA, MEL

Ontology

Formally specified set of concepts, relationships and rules describing a domain, providing a machine‑interpretable backbone for MELIAF data integration, reasoning and advanced queries. ​

[2817]

F, IA, MEL

Ontology

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Formally specified set of concepts, relationships and rules describing a domain, providing a machine‑interpretable backbone for MELIAF data integration, reasoning and advanced queries. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2817]

Process Interoperability

F, IA, MEL

Process Interoperability

Extent to which MELIAF workflows, timelines and decision procedures can interact and synchronize across initiatives, enabling joint planning, shared reviews and consistent reporting with minimal friction. ​

[2797]

F, IA, MEL

Process Interoperability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Extent to which MELIAF workflows, timelines and decision procedures can interact and synchronize across initiatives, enabling joint planning, shared reviews and consistent reporting with minimal friction. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2797]

Product Interoperability

F, IA, MEL

Product Interoperability

Ability of tools, dashboards, models, reports and evaluation products to plug into each other’s data structures, semantics and interfaces, allowing reuse and composition in MELIAF workflows. ​

[2798]

F, IA, MEL

Product Interoperability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Ability of tools, dashboards, models, reports and evaluation products to plug into each other’s data structures, semantics and interfaces, allowing reuse and composition in MELIAF workflows. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2798]

Results Type

F, IA, MEL

Results Type

Category describing a point along the results chain—such as input, activity, output, outcome or impact—used to classify indicators, data and findings in MELIAF systems.

[2822]

F, IA, MEL

Results Type

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Category describing a point along the results chain—such as input, activity, output, outcome or impact—used to classify indicators, data and findings in MELIAF systems.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2822]

Schema

F, IA, MEL

Schema

Formal structural blueprint describing entities, fields, relationships and constraints in a dataset or database, providing a shared template for MELIAF data creation, storage and exchange. ​

[2813]

F, IA, MEL

Schema

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Formal structural blueprint describing entities, fields, relationships and constraints in a dataset or database, providing a shared template for MELIAF data creation, storage and exchange. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Request This Icon
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[2813]

Schema-Conformant Data

F, IA, MEL

Schema-Conformant Data

Records that follow an agreed schema’s field definitions, types, relationships and constraints, enabling automated validation, integration and analysis across MELIAF systems. ​

[2814]

F, IA, MEL

Schema-Conformant Data

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Records that follow an agreed schema’s field definitions, types, relationships and constraints, enabling automated validation, integration and analysis across MELIAF systems. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2814]

Semantic Layer

F, IA, MEL

Semantic Layer

Shared conceptual representation that maps data fields, indicators and entities to well‑defined meanings, enabling consistent interpretation and integration across MELIAF tools and datasets. ​

[2816]

F, IA, MEL

Semantic Layer

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Shared conceptual representation that maps data fields, indicators and entities to well‑defined meanings, enabling consistent interpretation and integration across MELIAF tools and datasets. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2816]

Shared Impact Logic

F, IA, MEL

Shared Impact Logic

Commonly agreed narrative and diagram of how activities, outputs and outcomes are expected to contribute to long‑term impacts, serving as a reference for MELIAF planning and assessment. ​

[2821]

F, IA, MEL

Shared Impact Logic

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Commonly agreed narrative and diagram of how activities, outputs and outcomes are expected to contribute to long‑term impacts, serving as a reference for MELIAF planning and assessment. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2821]

Target

F, IA, MEL

Target

Specific, time‑bound value set for an indicator, expressing expected performance and guiding planning, monitoring and accountability within MELIAF. ​

[2826]

F, IA, MEL

Target

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Specific, time‑bound value set for an indicator, expressing expected performance and guiding planning, monitoring and accountability within MELIAF. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2826]

Taxonomic Coherence

F, IA, MEL

Taxonomic Coherence

Consistency and non‑overlap of terms, categories and indicator labels so that MELIAF data, ToCs and reports use a shared conceptual vocabulary across scales and disciplines. ​

[2800]

F, IA, MEL

Taxonomic Coherence

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Consistency and non‑overlap of terms, categories and indicator labels so that MELIAF data, ToCs and reports use a shared conceptual vocabulary across scales and disciplines. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2800]

Tier A Indicator

F, IA, MEL

Tier A Indicator

High‑level, often system‑wide metric that tracks progress on priority outcomes or impacts and is mandatory for aggregation and external accountability within MELIAF. ​

[2823]

F, IA, MEL

Tier A Indicator

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

High‑level, often system‑wide metric that tracks progress on priority outcomes or impacts and is mandatory for aggregation and external accountability within MELIAF. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Frank Place, Jim Hammond
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[2823]

Tier B Indicator

F, IA, MEL

Tier B Indicator

Intermediate‑level metric that supports comparative analysis across programs or regions, offering flexibility while retaining alignment with the overarching results framework. ​

[2824]

F, IA, MEL

Tier B Indicator

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Intermediate‑level metric that supports comparative analysis across programs or regions, offering flexibility while retaining alignment with the overarching results framework. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Frank Place, Jim Hammond
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[2824]

Tier C Indicator

F, IA, MEL

Tier C Indicator

Context‑specific metric tailored to project or initiative needs, supporting local learning and management while remaining mappable to higher‑tier indicators when needed. ​

[2825]

F, IA, MEL

Tier C Indicator

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Context‑specific metric tailored to project or initiative needs, supporting local learning and management while remaining mappable to higher‑tier indicators when needed. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

Frank Place, Jim Hammond
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[2825]

ToC–PB Linkage

F, IA, MEL

ToC–PB Linkage

Explicit mapping between elements of a Theory of Change and projected benefits in quantitative models, ensuring consistency between narrative causal logic and forward‑looking analysis. ​

[2832]

F, IA, MEL

ToC–PB Linkage

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Explicit mapping between elements of a Theory of Change and projected benefits in quantitative models, ensuring consistency between narrative causal logic and forward‑looking analysis. ​

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

INTEROPERABILITY

Authors/Reviewers

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[2832]

Scaling & Innovation

This thematic pack covers concepts, terminology, and visual elements related to the design, testing, and scaling of innovations within agrifood systems. It includes terms such as innovation bundles, TRL, scaling pathways, and usage models, with attention to enabling environments and partnerships. The pack supports users in illustrating how innovations move from research to widespread uptake across diverse contexts.

It can be used in MELIAF-aligned reporting, proposal design, and learning products to show how innovations are introduced, refined, and expanded. It is also useful in interactive dashboards and pathway visualizations that track adoption levels, scaling readiness, and systemic change over time.

14 Terms
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Complementary Innovations

IA, MEL

Complementary Innovations

Innovations, solutions or conditions that are necessary to scale core innovations.

[2404]

IA, MEL

Complementary Innovations

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Innovations, solutions or conditions that are necessary to scale core innovations.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2404]

Core Innovations

IA, MEL

Core Innovations

Innovations that are at the heart of initiatives/ interventions and that are expected to contribute to transformation and impact at scale.

[2408]

IA, MEL

Core Innovations

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Innovations that are at the heart of initiatives/ interventions and that are expected to contribute to transformation and impact at scale.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2408]

Innovation

F, IA, MEL

Innovation

New, improved, or adapted outputs or groups of outputs such as products, technologies, services, organizational and institutional arrangements with high potential to contribute to positive impacts when used at scale.

[2453]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

New, improved, or adapted outputs or groups of outputs such as products, technologies, services, organizational and institutional arrangements with high potential to contribute to positive impacts when used at scale.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMSSCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2453]

Innovation Package

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Package

Combinations of interrelated innovations and enabling conditions that, together, can lead to transformation and impact at scale in the CGIAR research delivery hierarchy.

[2454]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Package

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Combinations of interrelated innovations and enabling conditions that, together, can lead to transformation and impact at scale in the CGIAR research delivery hierarchy.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2454]

Innovation Partner

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Partner

Organizations or entities that CGIAR collaborates and co-invests with to improve the readiness of innovations to contribute to impact at scale.

[2455]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Partner

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Organizations or entities that CGIAR collaborates and co-invests with to improve the readiness of innovations to contribute to impact at scale.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2455]

Innovation Readiness

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Readiness

A metric used to assess the maturity of an innovation, with a scale ranging from the idea (lowest level) to validated under uncontrolled conditions (highest level).

[2456]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Readiness

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A metric used to assess the maturity of an innovation, with a scale ranging from the idea (lowest level) to validated under uncontrolled conditions (highest level).

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2456]

Innovation Stages

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Stages

Number of research and development innovations by stage, where the stages are: i) end of research phase (discovery/proof of concept); ii) end of piloting phase (if relevant); iii) available for uptake; iv) uptake by next user.

[2457]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Stages

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Number of research and development innovations by stage, where the stages are: i) end of research phase (discovery/proof of concept); ii) end of piloting phase (if relevant); iii) available for uptake; iv) uptake by next user.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2457]

Innovation Use

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Use

A metric used to assess the extent to which an innovation is already being used, by which type of users and under which conditions, with a scale ranging from no use (lowest level) to common use (highest level).

[2458]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation Use

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A metric used to assess the extent to which an innovation is already being used, by which type of users and under which conditions, with a scale ranging from no use (lowest level) to common use (highest level).

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2458]

Scaling

F, IA, MEL

Scaling

Investments, strategies and processes aimed at increasing innovation readiness and/ or innovation use to contribute to positive impacts at scale.

[2525]

F, IA, MEL

Scaling

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Investments, strategies and processes aimed at increasing innovation readiness and/ or innovation use to contribute to positive impacts at scale.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2525]

Scaling & Policy Tracing Study

IA

Scaling & Policy Tracing Study

Tracks how innovations, evidence, or policy advice move through next user/boundary partner institutions and systems to support long-term impact pathways.

[2705]

IA

Scaling & Policy Tracing Study

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Tracks how innovations, evidence, or policy advice move through next user/boundary partner institutions and systems to support long-term impact pathways.

Project Phases

1. Proposal5. Sharing

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Amy Beaudreault, James Stevenson, Julien Colomer, Marie-Angélique Laporte, Swetha Ramachandran
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[2705]

Scaling Partner

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Partner

Organizations or entities that CGIAR collaborates with to advance the uptake and use of innovations at scale.

[2526]

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Partner

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Organizations or entities that CGIAR collaborates with to advance the uptake and use of innovations at scale.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2526]

Scaling Readiness

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Readiness

Organizations or entities that CGIAR collaborates with to advance the uptake and use of innovations at scale.

[2527]

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Readiness

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Organizations or entities that CGIAR collaborates with to advance the uptake and use of innovations at scale.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2527]

Scaling Readiness Approach

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Readiness Approach

Metric that combines single or average innovation readiness and innovation use scores at innovation package or portfolio level.

[2528]

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Readiness Approach

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Metric that combines single or average innovation readiness and innovation use scores at innovation package or portfolio level.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2528]

Scaling Readiness Portfolio Management

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Readiness Portfolio Management

Evidence-based approach to support the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of strategies to increase readiness and use of innovations at innovation package and/or portfolio level.

[2529]

F, IA, MEL

Scaling Readiness Portfolio Management

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Evidence-based approach to support the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of strategies to increase readiness and use of innovations at innovation package and/or portfolio level.

Project Phases

2. Design4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

SCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2529]

Impact Areas

These are the major domains of long-term change targeted by CGIAR. It includes standardized terminology and icons that align with CGIAR impact frameworks.

The pack is useful for showing strategies, aligning projects with CGIAR-wide priorities, and communicating contributions to global goals. It can be used in reports, proposals, and visual tools to map how activities and outcomes contribute to specific impact areas.

5 Terms
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Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

F, IA, MEL

Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

Improving small-scale producers’ resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from food systems.

[2983]

F, IA, MEL

Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Improving small-scale producers’ resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from food systems.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

IMPACT AREAS

Authors/Reviewers

Lex Icon Community
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[2983]

Environmental Health & Biodiversity

F, IA, MEL

Environmental Health & Biodiversity

Increasing productivity in food systems while staying within environmental boundaries and maintaining biodiversity.

[2984]

F, IA, MEL

Environmental Health & Biodiversity

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Increasing productivity in food systems while staying within environmental boundaries and maintaining biodiversity.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

IMPACT AREAS

Authors/Reviewers

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[2984]

Gender Equality, Youth, and Social Inclusion

F, IA, MEL

Gender Equality, Youth, and Social Inclusion

Closing the gender gap and enhancing opportunities for youth in food, land, and water systems.

[2985]

F, IA, MEL

Gender Equality, Youth, and Social Inclusion

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Closing the gender gap and enhancing opportunities for youth in food, land, and water systems.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

IMPACT AREAS

Authors/Reviewers

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[2985]

Nutrition, Health, and Food Security

F, IA, MEL

Nutrition, Health, and Food Security

Ending hunger and enabling safe, affordable, healthy diets for the world’s most vulnerable people.

[2986]

F, IA, MEL

Nutrition, Health, and Food Security

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Ending hunger and enabling safe, affordable, healthy diets for the world’s most vulnerable people.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

IMPACT AREAS

Authors/Reviewers

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[2986]

Poverty Reduction, Livelihoods & Jobs

F, IA, MEL

Poverty Reduction, Livelihoods & Jobs

Building on a 50-year track record of lifting millions out of poverty.

[2987]

F, IA, MEL

Poverty Reduction, Livelihoods & Jobs

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Building on a 50-year track record of lifting millions out of poverty.

Project Phases

Contextual Taxonomies

IMPACT AREAS

Authors/Reviewers

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[2987]

Data & Datasets

This pack focuses on the types, sources, and management of data used within MELIAF systems, including datasets, data governance, and quality standards. It includes terminology and icons related to data collection, storage, sharing, and analysis.

This collection can be used in MEL Plans, dashboards, and documentation to represent data flows and assets.

29 Terms
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Agronomic Logbook

MEL

Agronomic Logbook

Documentation kept by farmers or field staff recording agronomic activities, inputs, and outputs over time to generate detailed panel data at the plot level.

[2620]

MEL

Agronomic Logbook

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Documentation kept by farmers or field staff recording agronomic activities, inputs, and outputs over time to generate detailed panel data at the plot level.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2620]

Available Data Inventory

IA

Available Data Inventory

Structured listing of existing datasets, their characteristics, and accessibility that guide new data collection and help researchers avoid duplication.

[2682]

IA

Available Data Inventory

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Structured listing of existing datasets, their characteristics, and accessibility that guide new data collection and help researchers avoid duplication.

Project Phases

2. Design4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2682]

Clean Dataset

F, IA, MEL

Clean Dataset

A ready-for-analysis dataset that has been checked and corrected for errors, inconsistencies, and missing values.

[2688]

F, IA, MEL

Clean Dataset

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

A ready-for-analysis dataset that has been checked and corrected for errors, inconsistencies, and missing values.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2688]

Continuous Data Validation

F, IA, MEL

Continuous Data Validation

Ongoing verification of incoming data for completeness, consistency, and plausibility throughout collection and entry. Continuous data validation can be used to safeguard data quality before analysis.

[2629]

F, IA, MEL

Continuous Data Validation

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Ongoing verification of incoming data for completeness, consistency, and plausibility throughout collection and entry. Continuous data validation can be used to safeguard data quality before analysis.

Project Phases

4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2629]

Data Analysis

F, IA, MEL

Data Analysis

Systematic processing and examination of collected qualitative, quantitative, and administrative data to identify and organize patterns within sources or samples (such as people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems).

[2679]

F, IA, MEL

Data Analysis

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Systematic processing and examination of collected qualitative, quantitative, and administrative data to identify and organize patterns within sources or samples (such as people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems).

Project Phases

4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Diana Milena Lopez Avila, Enrico Bonaiuti, Holger Meinke, Natalia Ortiz, Rachel Claus
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[2679]

Data and Assumptions Plan

F

Data and Assumptions Plan

An outline of required datasets, base parameter values, resolution scales, and scenario assumptions, including sources, normalization methods, validation, and quality checks that serves as the basis for implementing simulation model runs. Data and assumptions plan plans help modeling teams coordinate data acquisition and support transparency and replicability when developing simulation models and generating scenarios.

[2592]

F

Data and Assumptions Plan

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

An outline of required datasets, base parameter values, resolution scales, and scenario assumptions, including sources, normalization methods, validation, and quality checks that serves as the basis for implementing simulation model runs. Data and assumptions plan plans help modeling teams coordinate data acquisition and support transparency and replicability when developing simulation models and generating scenarios.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETSFORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2592]

Data Assets (information products)

F, IA, MEL

Data Assets (information products)

Intellectual Assets that are raw or manipulated datasets and information products produced by CGIAR, as outputs of CGIAR’s research and development activities.

[2415]

F, IA, MEL

Data Assets (information products)

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Intellectual Assets that are raw or manipulated datasets and information products produced by CGIAR, as outputs of CGIAR’s research and development activities.

Project Phases

3. Implementation5. Sharing

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2415]

Data Collection

F, IA, MEL

Data Collection

The process of using defined tools and protocols to systematically gather both measurements and observations about study system variables like people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems.

[2680]

F, IA, MEL

Data Collection

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

The process of using defined tools and protocols to systematically gather both measurements and observations about study system variables like people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2680]

Data Collection Methods

F, IA, MEL

Data Collection Methods

Techniques or approaches determined through methodological design that define how information is/will be gathered from different sources or samples (such as people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems).

[2631]

F, IA, MEL

Data Collection Methods

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Techniques or approaches determined through methodological design that define how information is/will be gathered from different sources or samples (such as people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems).

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Diana Milena Lopez Avila, Enrico Bonaiuti, Holger Meinke, Natalia Ortiz, Rachel Claus
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[2631]

Data Collection Tools

F, IA, MEL

Data Collection Tools

Specific instruments, devices, or guidelines that are used to to capture and record data from sources or samples (such as people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems) is gathered. Data collection tools operationalize data collection methods and may include questionnaires, interview guides, observation checklists, sensors, and data.

[2632]

F, IA, MEL

Data Collection Tools

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Specific instruments, devices, or guidelines that are used to to capture and record data from sources or samples (such as people, plants, animals, crops, soils, economics, climate, or water systems) is gathered. Data collection tools operationalize data collection methods and may include questionnaires, interview guides, observation checklists, sensors, and data.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Diana Milena Lopez Avila, Enrico Bonaiuti, Holger Meinke, Natalia Ortiz, Rachel Claus
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[2632]

Data Quality Assurance

IA, MEL

Data Quality Assurance

Activities concerned with assessing and improving the merit or worth of data collection, aggregation, cleaning, and management, as well as its compliance with given standards.

[2621]

IA, MEL

Data Quality Assurance

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Activities concerned with assessing and improving the merit or worth of data collection, aggregation, cleaning, and management, as well as its compliance with given standards.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2621]

Dataset Harmonization

MEL

Dataset Harmonization

Aligning variables, formats, units, and coding schemes across datasets to create interoperability and allow for combination or comparison. Harmonization is crucial for meta‑analysis and global or regional modeling.

[2681]

MEL

Dataset Harmonization

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Aligning variables, formats, units, and coding schemes across datasets to create interoperability and allow for combination or comparison. Harmonization is crucial for meta‑analysis and global or regional modeling.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2681]

Farmer Data

MEL

Farmer Data

Socio-economic data collected on farmer characteristics, decisions, perceptions, and outcomes, often at the household level.

[2637]

MEL

Farmer Data

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Socio-economic data collected on farmer characteristics, decisions, perceptions, and outcomes, often at the household level.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2637]

Farmer Data (Woman)

MEL

Farmer Data (Woman)

Socio-economic data collected on farmer characteristics, decisions, perceptions, and outcomes, often at the household level.

[2783]

MEL

Farmer Data (Woman)

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Socio-economic data collected on farmer characteristics, decisions, perceptions, and outcomes, often at the household level.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2783]

Ground Truth Data

IA, MEL

Ground Truth Data

High‑quality, location‑specific observations collected on the ground used to validate or calibrate remote‑sensing products and models. Ground‑truth data ensures spatial and modeled estimates reflect reality.

[2623]

IA, MEL

Ground Truth Data

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

High‑quality, location‑specific observations collected on the ground used to validate or calibrate remote‑sensing products and models. Ground‑truth data ensures spatial and modeled estimates reflect reality.

Project Phases

4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2623]

Harvest Record

MEL

Harvest Record

Documentation on harvest quantity, quality, losses, and timing. Harvest records are central to yield measurements and economic analysis.

[2625]

MEL

Harvest Record

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Documentation on harvest quantity, quality, losses, and timing. Harvest records are central to yield measurements and economic analysis.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2625]

Historical Datasets

IA, MEL

Historical Datasets

Existing datasets from past time periods, including surveys, administrative records, and gridded climate or yield series for use in trend analysis, baselines, and model calibration.

[2626]

IA, MEL

Historical Datasets

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Existing datasets from past time periods, including surveys, administrative records, and gridded climate or yield series for use in trend analysis, baselines, and model calibration.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2626]

Observational Data

IA, MEL

Observational Data

Data collected without experimental manipulation, such as administrative records or routine surveys. These data are widely used and require careful causal reasoning when used for impact estimates.

[2702]

IA, MEL

Observational Data

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Data collected without experimental manipulation, such as administrative records or routine surveys. These data are widely used and require careful causal reasoning when used for impact estimates.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2702]

Plot Data

IA, MEL

Plot Data

All data collected at the plot level, including inputs, management, yield, and environmental conditions.

[2641]

IA, MEL

Plot Data

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

All data collected at the plot level, including inputs, management, yield, and environmental conditions.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2641]

Primary Data

F, IA, MEL

Primary Data

The data observed or collected by a researcher, evaluator, or M&E professional from first-hand experience, specifically for the research project or area of interest.

[2499]

F, IA, MEL

Primary Data

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

The data observed or collected by a researcher, evaluator, or M&E professional from first-hand experience, specifically for the research project or area of interest.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2499]

Projection Datasets and Figures

F, IA

Projection Datasets and Figures

Assembled datasets and visualizations that present modeled trajectories of key indicators under different scenarios. Foresight approaches often use such projections to communicate possible futures and impacts of options.

[2670]

F, IA

Projection Datasets and Figures

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Assembled datasets and visualizations that present modeled trajectories of key indicators under different scenarios. Foresight approaches often use such projections to communicate possible futures and impacts of options.

Project Phases

4. Analysis5. Sharing

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2670]

Real Time Surveys

MEL

Real Time Surveys

Data collection conducted temporally proximal to the events of interest, minimizing recall issues and allowing near‑real‑time monitoring.

[2642]

MEL

Real Time Surveys

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Data collection conducted temporally proximal to the events of interest, minimizing recall issues and allowing near‑real‑time monitoring.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2642]

Retrospective Surveys

MEL

Retrospective Surveys

Types of surveys that collect information about past events or practices, relying on recall.

[2613]

MEL

Retrospective Surveys

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Types of surveys that collect information about past events or practices, relying on recall.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Diana Milena Lopez Avila, Enrico Bonaiuti, Holger Meinke, Natalia Ortiz, Rachel Claus
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[2613]

Satellite Dataset

IA, MEL

Satellite Dataset

Data products derived from satellite observations, such as land cover, vegetation indices, and weather proxies. Satellite datasets complement ground data and support large‑scale environmental and agricultural analysis.

[2644]

IA, MEL

Satellite Dataset

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Data products derived from satellite observations, such as land cover, vegetation indices, and weather proxies. Satellite datasets complement ground data and support large‑scale environmental and agricultural analysis.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Diana Milena Lopez Avila, Enrico Bonaiuti, Holger Meinke, Natalia Ortiz, Rachel Claus
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[2644]

Secondary Data

F, IA, MEL

Secondary Data

Data that has been collected for another purpose but may be reanalyzed in a subsequent study.

[2530]

F, IA, MEL

Secondary Data

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Data that has been collected for another purpose but may be reanalyzed in a subsequent study.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2530]

Sex Disaggregated Data

IA, MEL

Sex Disaggregated Data

Information differentiated on the basis of what pertains to females and their roles and to males and their roles.

[2533]

IA, MEL

Sex Disaggregated Data

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2025)

Definition

Information differentiated on the basis of what pertains to females and their roles and to males and their roles.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2533]

Sowing Record

MEL

Sowing Record

Detailed documentation of planting dates, seed types, and planting densities. Sowing records help researchers and farmers interpret yield outcomes and assess interactions between climate and management.

[2647]

MEL

Sowing Record

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Detailed documentation of planting dates, seed types, and planting densities. Sowing records help researchers and farmers interpret yield outcomes and assess interactions between climate and management.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Alan De Brauw, Alessandra Galiè, Allison Smith, Ibtissem Jouini, Ireny Khella, Lucy Njuguna, Najeeb Ullah, Rose Chesoli
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[2647]

Survey

IA, MEL

Survey

The collection of information using (1) a predefined sampling strategy, and (2) a survey instrument.

[2542]

IA, MEL

Survey

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2025)

Definition

The collection of information using (1) a predefined sampling strategy, and (2) a survey instrument.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2542]

Survey Instrument

IA, MEL

Survey Instrument

A pre-designed form (questionnaire) used to collect data during a survey.

[2543]

IA, MEL

Survey Instrument

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2025)

Definition

A pre-designed form (questionnaire) used to collect data during a survey.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2543]

Core MELIA Terms

This pack provides a standardized set of core terms and definitions used across MELIAF that are not process-specific but can apply to all MELIAF functions.

It is useful for onboarding, training, and harmonizing language across teams and partners. The pack can be applied in guidelines, reports, and digital tools to ensure shared understanding of MELIAF concepts.

38 Terms
Request Download

Accountability

F, IA, MEL

Accountability

In governance and management is the duty to ensure and report that the use of authority is aligned with rules, standards, policy and interests of the program, organization and the broader group of stakeholders.

[2374]

F, IA, MEL

Accountability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

In governance and management is the duty to ensure and report that the use of authority is aligned with rules, standards, policy and interests of the program, organization and the broader group of stakeholders.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMSFORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2374]

Change

F, IA, MEL

Change

A generic term to mean any difference. Specific changes resulting from a research output are to be characterized as outcomes or impacts.

[2398]

F, IA, MEL

Change

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A generic term to mean any difference. Specific changes resulting from a research output are to be characterized as outcomes or impacts.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2398]

Comparative Advantage

F, IA, MEL

Comparative Advantage

The term refers more broadly to the role and mandate of the CGIAR in producing international public goods where there are no alternative research suppliers that are better positioned to produce those goods.

[2402]

F, IA, MEL

Comparative Advantage

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

The term refers more broadly to the role and mandate of the CGIAR in producing international public goods where there are no alternative research suppliers that are better positioned to produce those goods.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2402]

Credibility (Scientific)

F, IA, MEL

Credibility (Scientific)

Scientific credibility requires that research findings be robust and that sources of knowledge be dependable and sound.

[2412]

F, IA, MEL

Credibility (Scientific)

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Scientific credibility requires that research findings be robust and that sources of knowledge be dependable and sound.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2412]

Evaluation Criteria

EVALUATION, MEL

Evaluation Criteria

The evaluation criteria provide a normative framework used to determine the merit or worth of an intervention… CGIAR evaluation policy defines these to include relevance, efficiency, quality of science, effectiveness, impact and sustainability in line with CGIAR context and the OECD DAC.

[2430]

EVALUATION, MEL

Evaluation Criteria

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

The evaluation criteria provide a normative framework used to determine the merit or worth of an intervention… CGIAR evaluation policy defines these to include relevance, efficiency, quality of science, effectiveness, impact and sustainability in line with CGIAR context and the OECD DAC.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2430]

Evaluation Policy

EVALUATION, MEL

Evaluation Policy

An evaluation policy outlines the definition, concept, role and use of evaluation within an organization.

[2431]

EVALUATION, MEL

Evaluation Policy

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

An evaluation policy outlines the definition, concept, role and use of evaluation within an organization.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2431]

Evaluation Reference Group (ERG)

EVALUATION, MEL

Evaluation Reference Group (ERG)

A structure set up to work with the evaluation managers to ensure good communication with, learning by, and appropriate accountability to primary evaluation clients and key stakeholders, while preserving the independence of researchers/evaluators.

[2432]

EVALUATION, MEL

Evaluation Reference Group (ERG)

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A structure set up to work with the evaluation managers to ensure good communication with, learning by, and appropriate accountability to primary evaluation clients and key stakeholders, while preserving the independence of researchers/evaluators.

Project Phases

2. Design4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2432]

Ex-ante Evaluation

EVALUATION, F, IA, MEL

Ex-ante Evaluation

An evaluation that is performed before implementation of a development intervention.

[2434]

EVALUATION, F, IA, MEL

Ex-ante Evaluation

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

An evaluation that is performed before implementation of a development intervention.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2434]

Ex-post Evaluation

EVALUATION, IA, MEL

Ex-post Evaluation

An evaluation of a development intervention after it has been completed… The intention is to identify the factors of success or failure, to assess the sustainability of results and impacts, and to draw conclusions that may inform other interventions.

[2435]

EVALUATION, IA, MEL

Ex-post Evaluation

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

An evaluation of a development intervention after it has been completed… The intention is to identify the factors of success or failure, to assess the sustainability of results and impacts, and to draw conclusions that may inform other interventions.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2435]

Foresight Study

F

Foresight Study

A structured and explicit exploration of multiple futures in order to inform decision-making. Foresight studies use a range of methodologies, such as scanning the horizon for emerging changes, analyzing megatrends and developing multiple scenarios, to reveal and discuss useful ideas about the future.

[2436]

F

Foresight Study

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A structured and explicit exploration of multiple futures in order to inform decision-making. Foresight studies use a range of methodologies, such as scanning the horizon for emerging changes, analyzing megatrends and developing multiple scenarios, to reveal and discuss useful ideas about the future.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMSFORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2436]

Framework

F, IA, MEL

Framework

A framework document outlines high level principles to frame to take forward relevant field.

[2438]

F, IA, MEL

Framework

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A framework document outlines high level principles to frame to take forward relevant field.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2438]

Human Rights and Gender Equality Principles of the United Nations Evaluation Group (UNEG)

EVALUATION, F, IA, MEL

Human Rights and Gender Equality Principles of the United Nations Evaluation Group (UNEG)

Principles from ‘Integrating Human Rights and Gender Equality in Evaluation: Towards UNEG Guidance’ to improve human rights and gender equality responsive evaluations in the UN system and beyond.

[2441]

EVALUATION, F, IA, MEL

Human Rights and Gender Equality Principles of the United Nations Evaluation Group (UNEG)

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Principles from ‘Integrating Human Rights and Gender Equality in Evaluation: Towards UNEG Guidance’ to improve human rights and gender equality responsive evaluations in the UN system and beyond.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2441]

Impact

F, IA, MEL

Impact

A durable change in the condition of people and their environment brought about by a chain of events or change to which research, innovations and related activities have contributed.

[2442]

F, IA, MEL

Impact

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A durable change in the condition of people and their environment brought about by a chain of events or change to which research, innovations and related activities have contributed.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2442]

Impact Assessment

IA

Impact Assessment

An assessment that estimates the causal effects of research outputs and related activities and assesses the magnitude of impact achieved. Impact assessments are conducted long after an intervention has been completed and are used to substantiate claims of sustained results.

[2444]

IA

Impact Assessment

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

An assessment that estimates the causal effects of research outputs and related activities and assesses the magnitude of impact achieved. Impact assessments are conducted long after an intervention has been completed and are used to substantiate claims of sustained results.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2444]

Impartiality

F, IA, MEL

Impartiality

In conducting an evaluation, the absence of bias in due process, in the scope and methodology, and in considering and presenting achievements and challenges.

[2447]

F, IA, MEL

Impartiality

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

In conducting an evaluation, the absence of bias in due process, in the scope and methodology, and in considering and presenting achievements and challenges.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2447]

Independent Science for Development Council (ISDC)

F, IA, MEL

Independent Science for Development Council (ISDC)

A standing panel of impartial, world-class scientific experts providing rigorous, independent strategic advice to the CGIAR System Council and other stakeholders.

[2448]

F, IA, MEL

Independent Science for Development Council (ISDC)

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A standing panel of impartial, world-class scientific experts providing rigorous, independent strategic advice to the CGIAR System Council and other stakeholders.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2448]

Indicator

F, IA, MEL

Indicator

A quantitative or qualitative variable that represents an approximation of the characteristic, phenomenon or change of interest (for instance, efficiency, quality or outcome).

[2451]

F, IA, MEL

Indicator

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A quantitative or qualitative variable that represents an approximation of the characteristic, phenomenon or change of interest (for instance, efficiency, quality or outcome).

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2451]

Innovation

F, IA, MEL

Innovation

New, improved, or adapted outputs or groups of outputs such as products, technologies, services, organizational and institutional arrangements with high potential to contribute to positive impacts when used at scale.

[2453]

F, IA, MEL

Innovation

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

New, improved, or adapted outputs or groups of outputs such as products, technologies, services, organizational and institutional arrangements with high potential to contribute to positive impacts when used at scale.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMSSCALING AND INNOVATION

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2453]

Learning – WFP

F, IA, MEL

Learning – WFP

Learning means that evidence and lessons are drawn from experience, accepted and internalized in new practices, thereby building on success to make improvements and avoiding past mistakes.

[2462]

F, IA, MEL

Learning – WFP

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

Learning means that evidence and lessons are drawn from experience, accepted and internalized in new practices, thereby building on success to make improvements and avoiding past mistakes.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2462]

Legitimacy – QoR4D

F, IA, MEL

Legitimacy – QoR4D

Means that the research process is fair and ethical and perceived as such. This encompasses the ethical and fair representation of all involved and consideration of interests and perspectives of intended users.

[2466]

F, IA, MEL

Legitimacy – QoR4D

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

Means that the research process is fair and ethical and perceived as such. This encompasses the ethical and fair representation of all involved and consideration of interests and perspectives of intended users.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2466]

Mission

F, IA, MEL

Mission

Defines an organization’s primary objectives and its approach to reaching those objectives.

[2477]

F, IA, MEL

Mission

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

Defines an organization’s primary objectives and its approach to reaching those objectives.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2477]

Mission

F, IA, MEL

Mission

To deliver science and innovation that advance transformation of food, land and water systems in a climate crisis.

[2395]

F, IA, MEL

Mission

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

To deliver science and innovation that advance transformation of food, land and water systems in a climate crisis.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2395]

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)

EVALUATION, MEL

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)

A system/framework for project/program management including tools, approaches and indicators to be used to assess results, integrate lessons and improve impacts related to strengthen capacities.

[2470]

EVALUATION, MEL

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

A system/framework for project/program management including tools, approaches and indicators to be used to assess results, integrate lessons and improve impacts related to strengthen capacities.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2470]

Mutual Accountability

IA, MEL

Mutual Accountability

In the context of the CGIAR, this refers to the accountability of all partners, including donors, for the efficiency of outputs, outcomes and impacts of a program, institution or policy and sustainability of research.

[2480]

IA, MEL

Mutual Accountability

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

In the context of the CGIAR, this refers to the accountability of all partners, including donors, for the efficiency of outputs, outcomes and impacts of a program, institution or policy and sustainability of research.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2480]

NARES / NARS (National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems or National Agricultural Research Systems)

F, IA, MEL

NARES / NARS (National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems or National Agricultural Research Systems)

Includes organizations and institutions created and/or funded by the government as a support for the national program of agricultural development.

[2481]

F, IA, MEL

NARES / NARS (National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems or National Agricultural Research Systems)

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

Includes organizations and institutions created and/or funded by the government as a support for the national program of agricultural development.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2481]

OneCGIAR Research Delivery Hierarchy

F, IA, MEL

OneCGIAR Research Delivery Hierarchy

OneCGIAR research delivery hierarchy to date: OneCGIAR >Action Area > Initiative > Work Package > Innovation Package.

[2484]

F, IA, MEL

OneCGIAR Research Delivery Hierarchy

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

OneCGIAR research delivery hierarchy to date: OneCGIAR >Action Area > Initiative > Work Package > Innovation Package.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2484]

Outcome

IA, MEL

Outcome

A change in knowledge, skills, attitudes and/or relationships, which manifests as a change in behavior in particular actors, to which research outputs and related activities have contributed.

[2485]

IA, MEL

Outcome

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

A change in knowledge, skills, attitudes and/or relationships, which manifests as a change in behavior in particular actors, to which research outputs and related activities have contributed.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2485]

Outputs

IA, MEL

Outputs

Knowledge, technical or institutional advancement produced by CGIAR research, engagement and/or capacity development activities.

[2487]

IA, MEL

Outputs

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2025)

Definition

Knowledge, technical or institutional advancement produced by CGIAR research, engagement and/or capacity development activities.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2487]

Portfolio

F, IA, MEL

Portfolio

“CGIAR Portfolio” means the research programs and/or platforms carried out by the Centers and the CGIAR System Partners in support of the CGIAR Strategy and Results Framework.

[2396]

F, IA, MEL

Portfolio

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

“CGIAR Portfolio” means the research programs and/or platforms carried out by the Centers and the CGIAR System Partners in support of the CGIAR Strategy and Results Framework.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2396]

Public Goods (Global, International)

F, IA, MEL

Public Goods (Global, International)

These are defined as goods with the three following economic properties: ‘non-rival’… ‘non-excludable’… and available worldwide.

[2506]

F, IA, MEL

Public Goods (Global, International)

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

These are defined as goods with the three following economic properties: ‘non-rival’… ‘non-excludable’… and available worldwide.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2506]

Quality of Research for Development (QoR4D)

F, IA, MEL

Quality of Research for Development (QoR4D)

QoR4D is a framework that facilitated CGIAR System-wide agreement on the nature and assessment of the quality of science, a concept broadened beyond scientific credibility to include the likelihood of achieving development outcomes.

[2508]

F, IA, MEL

Quality of Research for Development (QoR4D)

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

QoR4D is a framework that facilitated CGIAR System-wide agreement on the nature and assessment of the quality of science, a concept broadened beyond scientific credibility to include the likelihood of achieving development outcomes.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2508]

Research

F, IA, MEL

Research

Generation and communication of data, information and knowledge on an empirical basis.

[2517]

F, IA, MEL

Research

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

Generation and communication of data, information and knowledge on an empirical basis.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2517]

Results

F, IA, MEL

Results

The positive/negative, direct/indirect, and intended/unintended change or consequence of a planned project/program activity or intervention in the form of output, outcome or impact.

[2518]

F, IA, MEL

Results

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

The positive/negative, direct/indirect, and intended/unintended change or consequence of a planned project/program activity or intervention in the form of output, outcome or impact.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2518]

Results-Based Management (RBM)

MEL

Results-Based Management (RBM)

A management strategy by which all contributing stakeholders within a given intervention, project or program ensure that their intended results (i.e., outputs, outcomes, and impact) align with the results achieved.

[2521]

MEL

Results-Based Management (RBM)

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2025)

Definition

A management strategy by which all contributing stakeholders within a given intervention, project or program ensure that their intended results (i.e., outputs, outcomes, and impact) align with the results achieved.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2521]

System Level Outcomes (SLO)

IA, MEL

System Level Outcomes (SLO)

CGIAR’s Strategy and Results Framework 2016-2030 sets out three System Level Outcomes (SLOs): reducing poverty; ensuring food and nutrition security; and improving natural resources and ecosystem services.

[2547]

IA, MEL

System Level Outcomes (SLO)

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2025)

Definition

CGIAR’s Strategy and Results Framework 2016-2030 sets out three System Level Outcomes (SLOs): reducing poverty; ensuring food and nutrition security; and improving natural resources and ecosystem services.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2547]

System Transformation

F, IA, MEL

System Transformation

A major shift that results from significant positive, intended change in the governance and functioning of a system (structure entailing actors, processes and interactions making a meaningful whole with a common aim/purpose).

[2548]

F, IA, MEL

System Transformation

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2025)

Definition

A major shift that results from significant positive, intended change in the governance and functioning of a system (structure entailing actors, processes and interactions making a meaningful whole with a common aim/purpose).

Project Phases

0. Core Term1. Proposal

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2548]

Vision

F, IA, MEL

Vision

A world with sustainable and resilient food, land and water systems that deliver diverse, healthy, safe, sufficient and affordable diets, and ensure improved livelihoods and greater social equality, within planetary and regional environmental boundaries.

[2397]

F, IA, MEL

Vision

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A world with sustainable and resilient food, land and water systems that deliver diverse, healthy, safe, sufficient and affordable diets, and ensure improved livelihoods and greater social equality, within planetary and regional environmental boundaries.

Project Phases

0. Core Term1. Proposal

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2397]

Vision

F, IA, MEL

Vision

Statement to define the desired future state of a project, program or organization.

[2562]

F, IA, MEL

Vision

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2025)

Definition

Statement to define the desired future state of a project, program or organization.

Project Phases

0. Core Term1. Proposal

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMS

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2562]

Foresight

Concepts and methods for developing and analyzing future trends and scenarios in agrifood systems. It covers foresight key terms such as scenario modeling, horizon scanning, and trend analysis.

The pack can help scientists and funders speak the same language and be used in interactive tools and reports to communicate potential futures and inform decision-making.

35 Terms
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Accountability

F, IA, MEL

Accountability

In governance and management is the duty to ensure and report that the use of authority is aligned with rules, standards, policy and interests of the program, organization and the broader group of stakeholders.

[2374]

F, IA, MEL

Accountability

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

In governance and management is the duty to ensure and report that the use of authority is aligned with rules, standards, policy and interests of the program, organization and the broader group of stakeholders.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMSFORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2374]

Back Casting

F

Back Casting

A planning method that starts with a desirable future and works backward to identify the conditions required to reach it. Foresight and impact assessment functions apply back casting to align research and strategies with long‑term climate and food‑system goals.

[2649]

F

Back Casting

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

A planning method that starts with a desirable future and works backward to identify the conditions required to reach it. Foresight and impact assessment functions apply back casting to align research and strategies with long‑term climate and food‑system goals.

Project Phases

4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2649]

Back Casting Model Paramaterization

F

Back Casting Model Paramaterization

The process of setting back casting model parameters to be consistent with a desired result, and then exploring trajectories to determine whether pathways are feasible with biophysical and economic constraints.

[2650]

F

Back Casting Model Paramaterization

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

The process of setting back casting model parameters to be consistent with a desired result, and then exploring trajectories to determine whether pathways are feasible with biophysical and economic constraints.

Project Phases

4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2650]

Baseline Narrative

F

Baseline Narrative

Textual description of the baseline scenario, explaining current conditions and expected “business‑as‑usual” outcomes. The baseline narrative provides context for interpreting deviations in alternative scenarios and for communicating to non‑technical audiences.

[2651]

F

Baseline Narrative

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Textual description of the baseline scenario, explaining current conditions and expected “business‑as‑usual” outcomes. The baseline narrative provides context for interpreting deviations in alternative scenarios and for communicating to non‑technical audiences.

Project Phases

2. Design4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2651]

Baseline Scenario

F

Baseline Scenario

Scenario in which current trends and policies continue as they are, with no major changes in direction or magnitude of trends in the drivers of a model. They serve to highlight the events that would occur without intervention and determine or estimate the impact of alternative parameter values or context conditions. Baseline scenarios can be compared to scenarios in which mitigation strategies are implemented.

[2652]

F

Baseline Scenario

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Scenario in which current trends and policies continue as they are, with no major changes in direction or magnitude of trends in the drivers of a model. They serve to highlight the events that would occur without intervention and determine or estimate the impact of alternative parameter values or context conditions. Baseline scenarios can be compared to scenarios in which mitigation strategies are implemented.

Project Phases

2. Design4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2652]

Climate Modeling

F

Climate Modeling

Use of models to simulate past and future climate conditions and their effects on crop, hydrological, and economic systems to assess risks and adaptation and mitigation options.

[2628]

F

Climate Modeling

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Use of models to simulate past and future climate conditions and their effects on crop, hydrological, and economic systems to assess risks and adaptation and mitigation options.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2628]

Computable General Equilibrium Models

F

Computable General Equilibrium Models

Simulation models that represent how multiple sectors, production factors, and institutions interact and how they jointly respond to policy, technology, or external shocks while maintaining overall supply and demand balance. They are used to trace direct and indirect effects of shocks on prices, production, incomes, trade, and welfare across the economy.

[2654]

F

Computable General Equilibrium Models

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Simulation models that represent how multiple sectors, production factors, and institutions interact and how they jointly respond to policy, technology, or external shocks while maintaining overall supply and demand balance. They are used to trace direct and indirect effects of shocks on prices, production, incomes, trade, and welfare across the economy.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2654]

Crop Models

F

Crop Models

Models simulating crop growth, yield, nutrient requirements, crop management, and water using data from weather, soil characteristics, land management practices, and crop varietal types.

[2779]

F

Crop Models

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Models simulating crop growth, yield, nutrient requirements, crop management, and water using data from weather, soil characteristics, land management practices, and crop varietal types.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2779]

Data and Assumptions Plan

F

Data and Assumptions Plan

An outline of required datasets, base parameter values, resolution scales, and scenario assumptions, including sources, normalization methods, validation, and quality checks that serves as the basis for implementing simulation model runs. Data and assumptions plan plans help modeling teams coordinate data acquisition and support transparency and replicability when developing simulation models and generating scenarios.

[2592]

F

Data and Assumptions Plan

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

An outline of required datasets, base parameter values, resolution scales, and scenario assumptions, including sources, normalization methods, validation, and quality checks that serves as the basis for implementing simulation model runs. Data and assumptions plan plans help modeling teams coordinate data acquisition and support transparency and replicability when developing simulation models and generating scenarios.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

DATA & DATASETSFORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2592]

Disease Model

F

Disease Model

Foresight models that simulate epidemiological variables, like severity and incidence, associated with crop-related pests and diseases.

[2780]

F

Disease Model

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Foresight models that simulate epidemiological variables, like severity and incidence, associated with crop-related pests and diseases.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2780]

Driver of Change

F

Driver of Change

A parameter that strongly influences a system’s plausible future state, shaping how trends unfold and interact under high uncertainty. General drivers are seen as uni-directional and highly influential on systems. They are marked by contested, complex, or poorly understood impacts, making them central to exploring foresight scenarios.

[2692]

F

Driver of Change

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

A parameter that strongly influences a system’s plausible future state, shaping how trends unfold and interact under high uncertainty. General drivers are seen as uni-directional and highly influential on systems. They are marked by contested, complex, or poorly understood impacts, making them central to exploring foresight scenarios.

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2692]

Environmental and Biophysical Models

F

Environmental and Biophysical Models

Models that represent how natural systems behave and interact by simulating physical, chemical, and biological processes.

[2657]

F

Environmental and Biophysical Models

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Models that represent how natural systems behave and interact by simulating physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2657]

Farm or Household Bio‑Economic Models

F

Farm or Household Bio‑Economic Models

Models that integrate integrate biophysical processes, farm or household-level economic decision‑making, and management processes to simulate responses to technologies and policies.

[2697]

F

Farm or Household Bio‑Economic Models

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Models that integrate integrate biophysical processes, farm or household-level economic decision‑making, and management processes to simulate responses to technologies and policies.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2697]

Foresight & Futures Analysis

F

Foresight & Futures Analysis

Exploration of plausible medium or long-term futures to inform strategy, priority-setting, and risk-aware decision-making under uncertainty.

[2659]

F

Foresight & Futures Analysis

designed by Ana Carolina Nicolau

(Brazil,

2026)

Definition

Exploration of plausible medium or long-term futures to inform strategy, priority-setting, and risk-aware decision-making under uncertainty.

Project Phases

1. Proposal5. Sharing

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2659]

Foresight Study

F

Foresight Study

A structured and explicit exploration of multiple futures in order to inform decision-making. Foresight studies use a range of methodologies, such as scanning the horizon for emerging changes, analyzing megatrends and developing multiple scenarios, to reveal and discuss useful ideas about the future.

[2436]

F

Foresight Study

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2025)

Definition

A structured and explicit exploration of multiple futures in order to inform decision-making. Foresight studies use a range of methodologies, such as scanning the horizon for emerging changes, analyzing megatrends and developing multiple scenarios, to reveal and discuss useful ideas about the future.

Project Phases

0. Core Term

Contextual Taxonomies

CORE MELIA TERMSFORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2436]

Integrated Foresight Modeling

F

Integrated Foresight Modeling

The use of multiple, linked models and datasets to analyze how food, land, and water systems may co‑evolve under alternative futures and policy or investment options, and to quantify cross‑sector synergies and trade‑offs.

[2660]

F

Integrated Foresight Modeling

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

The use of multiple, linked models and datasets to analyze how food, land, and water systems may co‑evolve under alternative futures and policy or investment options, and to quantify cross‑sector synergies and trade‑offs.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2660]

Key Questions Worksheets

F

Key Questions Worksheets

Structured templates used to frame and prioritize the questions a foresight exercise should answer. They help participants in a scenario development workshop capture issues such as what futures to explore, which drivers and uncertainties matter most, whose perspectives to consider, what decisions the work should inform, and what indicators or evidence will be needed.

[2602]

F

Key Questions Worksheets

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Structured templates used to frame and prioritize the questions a foresight exercise should answer. They help participants in a scenario development workshop capture issues such as what futures to explore, which drivers and uncertainties matter most, whose perspectives to consider, what decisions the work should inform, and what indicators or evidence will be needed.

Project Phases

1. Proposal

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2602]

Land Use Models

F

Land Use Models

Quantitative tools that simulate land use and land cover change over time to monitor transitions between land uses, attribute these changes to key drivers, and produce metrics to be used as baselines, targets, and outcome/impact indicators.

[2662]

F

Land Use Models

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Quantitative tools that simulate land use and land cover change over time to monitor transitions between land uses, attribute these changes to key drivers, and produce metrics to be used as baselines, targets, and outcome/impact indicators.

Project Phases

2. Design3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2662]

Middle of the Road Scenario Narrative

F

Middle of the Road Scenario Narrative

Scenario narrative consistent with “middle‑of‑the‑road” socio‑economic pathways, where trends continue without extreme challenges or breakthroughs. Foresight studies sometimes use such narratives to compare moderate futures against more optimistic or pessimistic ones. See also: baseline narrative.

[2664]

F

Middle of the Road Scenario Narrative

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Scenario narrative consistent with “middle‑of‑the‑road” socio‑economic pathways, where trends continue without extreme challenges or breakthroughs. Foresight studies sometimes use such narratives to compare moderate futures against more optimistic or pessimistic ones. See also: baseline narrative.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2664]

Model Refinement

F

Model Refinement

The iterative process of updating and improving foresight, ex‑ante impact assessment, and simulation models in response to new data, methods, parameters, and user needs. Refinement allows models and tools to remain decision‑relevant.

[2671]

F

Model Refinement

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

The iterative process of updating and improving foresight, ex‑ante impact assessment, and simulation models in response to new data, methods, parameters, and user needs. Refinement allows models and tools to remain decision‑relevant.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2671]

Model Selection

F

Model Selection

The process of choosing an appropriate model based on evaluation questions, theory of change, scale, and data. Good model selection should balance the complexity of parameters with predictive performance.

[2700]

F

Model Selection

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

The process of choosing an appropriate model based on evaluation questions, theory of change, scale, and data. Good model selection should balance the complexity of parameters with predictive performance.

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2700]

Model Validation

F

Model Validation

The process of testing a calibrated model against independent data and alternative indicators to assess whether it reproduces observed patterns with acceptable accuracy for its intended purpose, thereby increasing confidence that its projections and scenario analyses are credible and fit for decision‑making. In order for validation to occur, there must be independent data with which to validate the model for geographies/periods.

[2685]

F

Model Validation

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

The process of testing a calibrated model against independent data and alternative indicators to assess whether it reproduces observed patterns with acceptable accuracy for its intended purpose, thereby increasing confidence that its projections and scenario analyses are credible and fit for decision‑making. In order for validation to occur, there must be independent data with which to validate the model for geographies/periods.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2685]

Multi‑Criteria Analysis

F

Multi‑Criteria Analysis

Method used to systematically compare future options or scenarios against several explicit criteria to support transparent, participatory choice among uncertain futures. Multi‑criteria analysis helps stakeholders assess and rank scenarios, strategies, or investments using weighted criteria, making value judgements and trade‑offs visible in long‑term decision‑making.

[2677]

F

Multi‑Criteria Analysis

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Method used to systematically compare future options or scenarios against several explicit criteria to support transparent, participatory choice among uncertain futures. Multi‑criteria analysis helps stakeholders assess and rank scenarios, strategies, or investments using weighted criteria, making value judgements and trade‑offs visible in long‑term decision‑making.

Project Phases

4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Angela Gimenez Barrera, Brian Belcher, Elizabeth Sweitzer, Enrico Bonaiuti, Julien Colomer, Karen Jay-Yina, Keith Child, Laura Reumann, Marc Schut, Porsha Stiger, Svetlana Negroustoueva, Tonya Schuetz
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[2677]

Optimistic Scenario

F

Optimistic Scenario

Scenario narrative consistent with best case shared socio‑economic pathways. Outcomes reflect minimal challenges, ideal policy change(s), beneficial conditions, or optimal intervention(s).

[2787]

F

Optimistic Scenario

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Scenario narrative consistent with best case shared socio‑economic pathways. Outcomes reflect minimal challenges, ideal policy change(s), beneficial conditions, or optimal intervention(s).

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2787]

Parameterization

F

Parameterization

Translating qualitative assumptions, drivers, and system relationships into numerical values, rules, and ranges that a model can use. Parameterization specifies how drivers of change are represented as parameters with set ranges that can be simulated and compared, and assumptions are declared.

[2665]

F

Parameterization

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Translating qualitative assumptions, drivers, and system relationships into numerical values, rules, and ranges that a model can use. Parameterization specifies how drivers of change are represented as parameters with set ranges that can be simulated and compared, and assumptions are declared.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2665]

Participatory Scenario Workshops

F

Participatory Scenario Workshops

Facilitated workshops where stakeholders co‑develop scenarios, discussing drivers, system dynamics, and implications. This ensures scenarios are co-created and grounded in stakeholder knowledge, and gives participants ownership of resulting strategies and research agendas.

[2666]

F

Participatory Scenario Workshops

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Facilitated workshops where stakeholders co‑develop scenarios, discussing drivers, system dynamics, and implications. This ensures scenarios are co-created and grounded in stakeholder knowledge, and gives participants ownership of resulting strategies and research agendas.

Project Phases

2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2666]

Pessimistic Scenario

F

Pessimistic Scenario

Scenario narrative consistent with worst-case socio‑economic and/or environmental pathways. Outcomes reflect extreme challenges, adverse conditions, or negative intervention(s).

[2667]

F

Pessimistic Scenario

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Scenario narrative consistent with worst-case socio‑economic and/or environmental pathways. Outcomes reflect extreme challenges, adverse conditions, or negative intervention(s).

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2667]

Problem Trees

F

Problem Trees

Graphical tool mapping a focal problem and the relationships between underlying causes and observable effects.

[2668]

F

Problem Trees

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Graphical tool mapping a focal problem and the relationships between underlying causes and observable effects.

Project Phases

1. Proposal2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2668]

Problem‑Framing Tools

F

Problem‑Framing Tools

Structured approaches for clarifying underlying causes, pathways, and boundaries of issues. Problem‑framing tools can be used to align stakeholders and develop interventions.

[2669]

F

Problem‑Framing Tools

designed by Hendi Perkasa

(Indonesia,

2026)

Definition

Structured approaches for clarifying underlying causes, pathways, and boundaries of issues. Problem‑framing tools can be used to align stakeholders and develop interventions.

Project Phases

1. Proposal2. Design

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Berber Kramer, Bronagh Woods, Keith Weibe, Marc Schut, Nedumaran Swamikannu
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[2669]

Research Question

F

Research Question

A specific knowledge gap that a body of research seeks to answer, framed to address knowledge gaps and inform decisions. Research questions are often linked explicitly to theories of change and are the basis for more specific hypotheses.

[2703]

F

Research Question

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

A specific knowledge gap that a body of research seeks to answer, framed to address knowledge gaps and inform decisions. Research questions are often linked explicitly to theories of change and are the basis for more specific hypotheses.

Project Phases

1. Proposal

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2703]

Scenario (Foresight)

F

Scenario (Foresight)

Structured descriptions of possible future outcomes, like the state of food, land, socioeconomic, water, and climate systems, based on specific assumptions about drivers and policies. In foresight, scenarios combine narratives and quantitative model outputs to explore risks and opportunities for research and scaling strategies. They also provide policy advice.

[2672]

F

Scenario (Foresight)

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Structured descriptions of possible future outcomes, like the state of food, land, socioeconomic, water, and climate systems, based on specific assumptions about drivers and policies. In foresight, scenarios combine narratives and quantitative model outputs to explore risks and opportunities for research and scaling strategies. They also provide policy advice.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2672]

Scenario Narrative

F

Scenario Narrative

A story-like description of a potential future, based on a systematic set of assumptions and projections about drivers of change that influence outcomes. Scenario narratives may describe optimistic, middle-of-the-road, or pessimistic futures.

[2673]

F

Scenario Narrative

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

A story-like description of a potential future, based on a systematic set of assumptions and projections about drivers of change that influence outcomes. Scenario narratives may describe optimistic, middle-of-the-road, or pessimistic futures.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis5. Sharing

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2673]

Scenario Parameters

F

Scenario Parameters

Specific quantitative or qualitative values which define how a given scenario differs from others. They translate narratives about future change into concrete assumptions for model use. Scenario parameters include population growth rates, GDP growth, technology adoption rates, input and output prices, policy variables, land‑use change rates, and emissions trajectories.

[2674]

F

Scenario Parameters

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Specific quantitative or qualitative values which define how a given scenario differs from others. They translate narratives about future change into concrete assumptions for model use. Scenario parameters include population growth rates, GDP growth, technology adoption rates, input and output prices, policy variables, land‑use change rates, and emissions trajectories.

Project Phases

3. Implementation4. Analysis

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2674]

Shared Socioeconomic Pathways

F

Shared Socioeconomic Pathways

Standardized narratives and quantitative pathways created by the IPCC for climate research which describe how global society, demographics, economies, technology, and policies might evolve over the 21st century. Shared socioeconomic pathways demonstrate how these factors may influence greenhouse gas emissions and the capacity to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

[2710]

F

Shared Socioeconomic Pathways

designed by Nilufer Sen

(Turkey,

2026)

Definition

Standardized narratives and quantitative pathways created by the IPCC for climate research which describe how global society, demographics, economies, technology, and policies might evolve over the 21st century. Shared socioeconomic pathways demonstrate how these factors may influence greenhouse gas emissions and the capacity to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Brian Belcher, Evelyne Okoth, Jim Hammond, Mansi Tripathi, Nicoleta Trifa, Nils Teufel, Timothy Sulser
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[2710]

Water Models

F

Water Models

Biophysical models simulating hydrological balances and competing water usage. They are used to assess water productivity, drought, allocation, and heat stress risks.

[2656]

F

Water Models

designed by Olya Batiievska

(Ukraine,

2026)

Definition

Biophysical models simulating hydrological balances and competing water usage. They are used to assess water productivity, drought, allocation, and heat stress risks.

Project Phases

3. Implementation

Contextual Taxonomies

FORESIGHT

Authors/Reviewers

Eleonora De Falcis, Jawoo Koo, Ricky Robertson
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[2656]

License Agreement

1. Grant of License

By downloading the [bundle name] package, you are granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable right to use these Lex Icons™ in all CGIAR and CG Center knowledge products (Websites, Reports, PPTs, Apps, and Manuals). This license is valid for the period of [validity period].

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Each icon in [bundle name] package is a scientific token. You agree to:

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  • Third Parties: You may share these icons with contractors for CGIAR-contracted work only. You remain responsible for their compliance.
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Correct usage qualifies your project for the MELIAF Compliant Badge. Consistent high-integrity use earns MELIAF Compliant status, providing priority visibility in the MELIAF HUB and competitive advantages in donors’ reporting.

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License Agreement

1. Grant of License

By downloading the [bundle name] package, you are granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable right to use these Lex Icons™ in all CGIAR and CG Center knowledge products (Websites, Reports, PPTs, Apps, and Manuals). This license is valid for the period of [validity period].

2. Integrity

Each icon in [bundle name] package is a scientific token. You agree to:

  • Semantic Integrity: Use icons only to represent the exact term and definition found in the Lex Icons™ Library Library.
  • Honest Reporting: Ensure icons represent verified data. Using icons to misrepresent results or “greenwash” claims will result in an immediate ban from the library.
  • Machine Readability: To preserve the machine-readable Identity String, always use the original downloaded file. Do not use screenshots or ‘Export as Image’ from non-compatible software.

3. Technical & Visual Standards

To maintain brand synchronization, you must adhere to following the Usage Guidelines described in the MELIAF HUB and Lex Icons™ Library.

4. Governance and Evolution

  • Third Parties: You may share these icons with contractors for CGIAR-contracted work only. You remain responsible for their compliance.
  • Assignment: New icons created for this taxonomy must follow the [Design Guidelines] and be assigned back to the Lexicon on a royalty-free basis.

5. Recognition

Correct usage qualifies your project for the MELIAF Compliant Badge. Consistent high-integrity use earns MELIAF Compliant status, providing priority visibility in the MELIAF HUB and competitive advantages in donors’ reporting.

6. Warranty Disclaimer

CGIAR provides these icons “as is.” The presence of a Lex Icons™does not constitute a financial audit or endorsement of your data by the Office of the Chief Scientist. The Licensee assumes all risk for the accuracy of claims made.