Tools are mechanisms or methods that aid, influence or inform policy- and decision-making processes and outcomes. The focus is on those used for policy, project, programme or plan (PPPP) formation, implementation and evaluation.

It is rare to find a ‘one-size-fits-all tool’ - the challenge is to use the best combination of tools at the relevant stage of the policy cycle shown within the NEAT tree.

Tools have been organised into six types, shown in the table on the right. Within each type, explore specific guidance on tools (shown here in the right-hand column of the table) that have been 'ecosystem-proofed' to incorporate the Ecosytem Approach, as well as literature reviews and additional short tool reviews.