General Methodology 2: Impact Measurement and Valuation Techniques

The second installment in our General Methodology is now available.

General Methodology 2 Publications

Introduction

General Methodology 2: Impact Measurement and Valuation Techniques outlines the data requirements, measures, and techniques used to measure and value impacts in impact accounting, as well as in the development of Topic and Industry-specific Methodologies. The statement builds on the key concepts, definitions, and principles established in General Methodology 1: Conceptual Framework for Impact Accounting by describing the quantitative tools used to develop impact accounting methodologies and prepare impact accounts. Watch a brief video introduction to General Methodology 2: Impact Measurement and Valuation Techniques here.

Highlights

  • Articulates the process for measuring and valuing impacts based on the logic of impact pathways, covering impact drivers, outcomes and impacts, and the monetary valuation of impacts.
  • Outlines the data necessary to prepare impact accounts, linkages to sustainability-related disclosures, and techniques to estimate data, such as life cycle assessment, among others, when data gaps exist. 
  • Explains the importance and role of the well-being of people in the Methodology, building on the definition of impact established in General Methodology 1. The Methodology presents the OECD Framework for Measuring Well-being and articulates the role of dimensions and capitals in the impact pathway.
  • Introduces a collection of methods for measuring impacts, including objective and subjective well-being measures, and techniques for valuing impacts in monetary terms, including cost-based, market-based, revealed preference, stated preference, and subjective well-being valuation approaches.

Influences

The development of this methodology builds on frameworks and protocols published by leading organizations in the impact management ecosystem, research and standards of international organizations, and sustainability-related disclosures required by governing jurisdictions and international standard setters, including:

The content of General Methodology 1 and General Methodology 2 are meant to inform and explain the development of Topic and Industry-specific Methodologies and guide preparers of impact accounts to develop impact pathways in the absence of officially published methodology.

Development Process

The development of General Methodology 2 is governed by the Valuation Technical & Practitioner Committee (VTPC) and follows the Due Process Protocol.

  • Development of General Methodology 2 was approved by the VTPC as part of its 2024 work plan. 
  • Preliminary research and development began in July 2023. VTPC discussion meetings were held in February and May 2024.
  • The VTPC approved the Exposure Draft of General Methodology 2 in June 2024.
  • Public comment period was launched on September 24, 2024.
  • A revised final version of General Methodology 2 based on public comment was approved by the VTPC in October 2025.
  • The final version was released along with the Basis for Conclusions in March 2026.

Watch the webinar

Watch the webinar that introduced the exposure drafts for:

  • General Methodology 2: Impact Measurement and Valuation Techniques
  • Occupational Health and Safety Topic Methodology
  • Water Consumption Topic Methodology
Watch on YouTube