The CERN Innovation Programme on Environmental Applications (CIPEA) was launched in 2022 as a call for ideas to stimulate novel environmental applications based on CERN’s technologies, scientific expertise and unique research infrastructure. CIPEA has since evolved into an integrated framework encompassing many CERN initiatives aimed at generating environmental impact beyond the Organization’s own operational footprint. More than 25 projects are currently being developed with external partners, primarily from industry, drawing on competences integral to accelerator science, including superconductivity, high-field magnets, materials, cryogenics, vacuum systems, radiofrequency technologies, cooling and ventilation, and laser beams. Activities are structured around four key application areas: renewable and low-carbon energy; clean transportation and future mobility; climate-change mitigation and pollution control; and sustainability and green science. CIPEA is largely externally funded, with over 80% of its resources contributed by partner organizations. This paper outlines the programme’s overall strategy, describes the priority development axes within each application area, provides an overview of ongoing efforts and highlights selected flagship projects that exemplify CIPEA’s innovation potential.