The CRANE platform (developed by Prime Coalition) represents a new generation of impact measurement tools designed for investors seeking comparative environmental assessments. It’s not just another carbon calculator — it’s a structured, market-informed framework enabling investors to assess how projects perform relative to peers across similar sectors.

1. Comparative Impact, Not Absolute Claims

CRANE’s strength lies in its ability to compare impact potential between projects, rather than claiming absolute emissions reductions. This approach encourages transparency, minimises the risk of overclaiming, and helps investors allocate capital where it can make the greatest measurable difference.

“CRANE is a comparative tool informed by market methodologies — not fixed to IPCC or Verra standards.”

That distinction matters. By focusing on comparative outcomes, CRANE invites flexibility for innovation while maintaining consistency across a growing dataset of over 6,000 impact assessments already conducted globally.

2. A Market-Informed Baseline

The methodology underpinning CRANE is “informed by the market”, meaning it draws from real-world investment trends and observed performance, rather than theoretical models alone. This market alignment strengthens the credibility of reported outcomes and allows data to evolve as technologies mature.

It also means that impact evaluation becomes a living process, continuously refined as evidence accumulates — a vital consideration as investors and policymakers seek more accurate signals of environmental return on investment.

3. The Investor Perspective

The session included perspectives from Jez Weston (Climate VC), who highlighted that investors are increasingly looking for decision-ready metrics rather than long, academic reporting. Tools like CRANE provide a shared language to evaluate early-stage innovations and infrastructure investments alike.

This resonates strongly with how we at Alimentary Systems measure and communicate our impact — ensuring that investors can see tangible, data-driven progress without losing sight of the underlying ethical and cultural purpose.

4. Science, Policy, and Integration

Grant Blackwell, Chief Science Advisor to the NZ Climate Change Commission, also contributed to the discussion. His presence underscored the importance of linking scientific frameworks with policy and investment.

The integration of CRANE-like models into national and regional contexts opens the door for evidence-based governance — something New Zealand is uniquely positioned to lead through its Treaty-based stewardship model.

5. Learning for BRRP.IO and Beyond

For Alimentary Systems, the CRANE methodology offers valuable comparative learning as we continue developing BRRP.IO, our own platform for measuring circular impact across bioresource recovery projects.

Where CRANE provides an investor’s lens for global scalability, BRRP.IO applies local nuance — integrating cultural, ecological, and economic metrics that reflect the mana of place

Together, these insights support a shared vision:

Global standards, local mana — measurable impact aligned with the voice of Papatūānuku..