Sustainability
5
mins

10 solutions for measuring business environmental impact

Updated on
July 28, 2025

These are the best solutions to measure corporate environmental impact in 2025:

1. Dcycle
2. Normative
3. Watershed
4. Greenly
5. Plan A
6. SustrendLab
7. APlanet
8. Enablon
9. Ecochain
10. LCA Digital

Today, understanding and managing corporate environmental impact measurement is not just about regulations.

It’s a key move if we want to remain competitive.

Without clear data on our emissions and resource consumption, making effective decisions becomes a guessing game.

Assumptions are no longer enough. If we don’t measure, we don’t improve. And if we don’t improve, we lose efficiency, money and market opportunities.

The reality is simple: companies that aren’t measuring their impact are falling behind.

Measuring is about more than just reporting. It lets us identify weak spots, optimize processes, comply with regulations, and access new markets.

Let’s break down what it really means to measure environmental impact, which methods exist, the benefits, and how to get started easily.

The 10 Best Solutions to Measure Corporate Environmental Impact

1. Dcycle

If we want a clear, fast and simple solution to measure our company’s environmental impact, Dcycle is the option.

We’re not auditors or consultants. We’re a solution designed to gather, structure and convert your ESG data into real value.

The goal is simple: have all the information in one place and use it for what really matters, like meeting regulations, spotting opportunities and improving our company’s efficiency.

What does Dcycle allow us to do?

Automatically collect ESG data from different sources, without hassle.

Connect with what you already use (ERP, spreadsheets, internal platforms).

Generate reports ready to comply with regulations like CSRD, EINF, Taxonomy, SBTi or ISO.

Identify critical points where we can improve impact and cut costs.

Turn data into specific actions for your team, without needing external experts.

Dcycle isn’t made to just create nice-looking reports. It’s built so that any company, in any industry, can turn sustainability into a competitive advantage.

Because if you’re not measuring, you can’t improve. And if you don’t improve, you’re falling behind.

The best part? All of this without relying on consultants or endless processes. A solution that speaks the language of business, not of technical reports.

2. Normative

Normative offers a solution focused on detailed emissions calculations, especially indirect emissions (Scope 3).

It works well for companies that already have an advanced measurement system and need to refine their data.

Its approach combines internal data with public databases, which adds precision, but can also complicate things if your data isn’t well organized from the start.

This is not a lightweight solution, and it takes time and a dedicated team to fully benefit from it.

Even so, it can be useful if your priority is regulatory compliance and you have resources committed to the issue.

3. Watershed

Watershed is aimed squarely at SBTi compliance and stricter climate regulations.

If you're already involved in these frameworks or will soon be required to comply, this may be a solid choice.

Its model is based on consulting + software, which adds complexity and dependence on third parties.

You need to coordinate with their human team, which extends timelines and increases costs.

It works well in large companies with specialized internal structures, but may fall short if you’re looking for a flexible, agile solution with less external involvement.

4. Greenly

Greenly presents itself as a simple emissions measurement solution, especially designed for small or medium-sized businesses that are just getting started.

It has an accessible interface and focuses on making things easy to understand.

The good part: it’s easy to use and visually clear.
The downside: when you need to customize or scale, the limitations become obvious.

In terms of regulatory compliance, it may also fall short under more demanding frameworks.

Ideal to get started, but not necessarily the best for growth.

5. Plan A

Plan A is aimed at companies that want to integrate ESG into their strategy, not just measure CO₂.

It includes social and governance data, and allows for decarbonization planning.

It offers specific modules for regulations like CSRD or the EU Taxonomy, which is helpful if you need complete, detailed reports.

The downside is its lack of flexibility and customization. It’s a bit rigid, and while it works well if you adapt to its structure, it doesn’t always fit complex or specific processes.

A good option if you want something comprehensive, but be ready to adjust to the way it works.

6. SustrendLab

SustrendLab combines consulting and technology, focusing on ESG impact reporting and analysis. It’s useful for companies that need technical support throughout the process.

It’s not a 100% automated solution, which can slow down decision-making. The process depends heavily on the external team, meaning higher cost and less internal autonomy.

It’s more of a consulting service with digital support, rather than a fast, day-to-day operational tool.

7. APlanet

APlanet is a platform focused on ESG management, with emphasis on action traceability, regulatory compliance and performance communication.

It’s good at storing documentation and creating reports.

However, its weak point lies in environmental calculations, as it doesn’t always allow for detailed tracking of emissions based on real data.

It’s useful to keep your ESG strategy organized, but it’s not the most powerful tool if accurate environmental impact measurement is what you need.

8. Enablon

Enablon is designed for large corporations with complex structures.

It’s a robust system, with many modules and features adapted to the industrial sector.

Its customization level is high, but so is its complexity. It requires time, training and significant investment.

This is not a solution for beginners or companies that need to move quickly. It’s a long-term investment that only makes sense if you’re already on the path and need a tailored platform for full risk, compliance and sustainability management.

9. Ecochain

Ecochain is focused on life cycle analysis (LCA), allowing companies to measure the environmental impact of products and processes in great detail.

This is very useful in industrial and manufacturing sectors, where understanding every phase of production is crucial. However, it does not comprehensively cover the social or governance aspects of ESG.

It works well as a specialized tool, but if you are looking for a more complete solution, you will have to complement it with other systems.

10. LCA Digital

LCA Digital is a more technical and specialized option focused on product environmental footprint. Its approach is closely linked to compliance with standards like ISO 14040 and 14044.

It is designed for technical profiles, which can be a drawback if you don’t have a team experienced in LCA. It also does not cover the rest of the ESG spectrum, so if you need a comprehensive view, it falls short.

Ideal for very specific analyses, but not for an integral or scalable ESG strategy.

Why Measuring Corporate Environmental Impact is a Strategic Necessity

What Does Measuring a Company’s Environmental Impact Involve

Measuring environmental impact is not just about compliance. It’s about knowing clearly what we are generating, where we are generating it, and how we can act to reduce it.

Without data, there is no strategy, only intuition.

When we talk about environmental impact, we refer not only to emissions.

We’re talking about resource use, waste generation, energy consumption, transportation, water, raw materials, and everything that is part of a company’s operations.

Every area of our business has an environmental cost. Measuring it means analyzing all activities, both direct and indirect, that affect the environment.

From our offices to the suppliers we use.

This can’t be done in Excel or with home-made formulas.

It’s about gathering the right data, structuring it, and using it to make decisions that help us be more efficient and meet regulatory demands.

And this has a clear objective: to be more competitive.

Companies that are not measuring and controlling their impact are being left out of tenders, out of certain markets, and without real growth options in a context where regulatory pressure is only increasing.

Why is it strategic, then? Because it affects everything: from cost savings to access to funding, customer relationships, reputation, and the ability to adapt quickly to what’s coming.

In this context, it is important to understand how companies align with sustainable finance frameworks, which offer clear criteria for integrating environmental considerations into financial decision-making and access to green capital.

Measuring is the first step to turning a cost into an advantage.
And that’s what separates leading companies from the rest, who are still improvising.

6 Reasons to Start Measuring Corporate Environmental Impact

1. Regulatory and Legal Compliance

Regulations are raising the bar. CSRD, EU Taxonomy, ISO, SBTi… every day there are more frameworks demanding concrete and auditable data about our company’s environmental impact.

It’s not about whether we want to do it or not.
If we don’t comply, we’re out of contracts, subsidies, or key markets.

And that has a direct impact on our activity and results.

2. Optimization of Resources and Internal Processes

Measuring impact also helps us detect inefficiencies.

If we don’t know where resources are going, we won’t know how to reduce costs.

It helps us see which processes consume more energy, generate more waste, or involve more transport.

With that information, we adjust, cut, and improve. That simple.

3. Improving Competitiveness in Tenders and Supply Chains

More and more clients and suppliers demand environmental data.
Not because it’s trendy, but because they too need to report.

If we don’t measure, we are off their radar.
But if we show clear, well-measured data, we position ourselves as a reliable option.

That makes the difference when it comes to closing deals.

4. Reducing Reputational and Operational Risks

The lack of environmental information is no longer an excuse.

If something goes wrong and we have no data, we’re exposed to criticism, fines, and loss of trust.

Having controlled data gives us room to maneuver.

We can anticipate problems, respond clearly, and avoid turning a mistake into a crisis.

5. Access to Funding with ESG Criteria

Banks and funds increasingly prioritize companies with well-organized ESG data.

We’re not just talking about looking “good for investors,” but about actual funding conditions.

Measuring our impact opens doors.
No data, no dialogue.

With solid data, we access more competitive financing.

6. Preparing for Reports Like CSRD, EINF or EU Taxonomy

If we don’t have well-organized data, reporting becomes chaos.

And these reports aren’t going away; they’re getting more demanding.

Measuring now lets us build a solid foundation.
So when it’s time to report, we’re not improvising. We’re ready.

That’s what gives us an advantage over those who arrive late.

4 Common Problems When Trying to Measure Environmental Impact Without Specialized Tools

1. Data is Not Unified or Comparable

The first problem is the data chaos.
It’s spread across departments, in different formats and scattered documents.

This makes it nearly impossible to cross-check information and draw useful conclusions.

Without a clear structure, we don’t know if what we’re measuring makes sense or if we’re repeating mistakes.

We lose time, and worse, we lose accuracy.

2. There is No Traceability or Reliability in Results

When we do manual calculations, sources change, get mixed up or disappear.
What we report today, tomorrow no longer matches.

This leaves us exposed to audits or external reviews.

Lack of traceability generates distrust.
If we can’t explain where data comes from, it’s as if it’s worthless.

3. The Process Consumes Too Much Team Time

Doing this without the right solution means hours and hours wasted.
Searching for documents, matching spreadsheets, redoing calculations…

It’s a pointless burden that doesn’t generate real value.

In the end, the team gets overwhelmed and time is taken from key tasks.
And that also has an economic cost.

4. It Can’t Be Scaled or Reported Quickly

When it’s time to report, it’s all rush and patches.
If the company grows or changes its model, the manual system breaks.

Without a prepared tool, there’s no way to adapt quickly.
In an environment where demands increase every year, that leaves us out of the game.

This Is the Process of Measuring Environmental Impact in 5 Steps

Measuring environmental impact is not a formality, it’s a business tool.

It lets us clearly see how we operate, where we’re losing efficiency, and what we can do to improve.

From our experience, this process should be structured but also practical.

It needs to adapt to each company’s reality and be aimed at generating value, not just compliance.

Let’s go step by step.

Step 1: Identifying Key Environmental Aspects and Indicators

The first thing is to understand what we need to measure.

Not everything applies to all companies, but we do need to identify which processes generate the most emissions, use more resources or have the biggest impact.

Here we define key environmental indicators, the ones that really give us useful information and let us act with purpose.

Step 2: Defining Organizational and Operational Scope

It doesn’t make sense to measure just one part and assume it represents everything.

That’s why we define the scope clearly: which activities, sites, suppliers, or products are included in the analysis.

This gives us a real picture of impact, without makeup or arbitrary cuts.

Step 3: Choosing International Methodologies and Standards (GHG, ISO, GRI)

Here we define how we’re going to measure.

We use recognized frameworks like the GHG Protocol, ISO 14064/67 or GRI standards, depending on what best fits the case.

This gives us consistency and prepares us for future reporting or verification.
No improvisation, we work with solid criteria.

Step 4: Data Collection, Analysis, and Normalization

This is where the hard work starts, especially if we don’t have a dedicated solution.

Collecting data on consumption, transportation, materials, or waste can be a real mess if it’s not automated.

With a solution like Dcycle, this process becomes agile.
We gather data from the source, structure it, and prepare it for analysis or reporting.
No duplicates, no errors, no wasted time.

Step 5: Setting KPIs, Objectives, and Improvement Strategies

Measuring is only useful if we’re going to act.
Once we have clear data, we define real KPIs: consumption per unit produced, emissions per process, waste per supplier, etc.

And with those indicators, we set specific objectives that directly impact our operation.

Because here it’s not about ticking boxes, it’s about making better decisions and ensuring the company runs better.

This is what turns measurement into transformation.
Not a cost, but a tool for leadership.

How to Choose a Solution to Effectively Measure Environmental Impact

Not every solution works for every case.

If we want to measure properly, we need a solution that fits our operational reality, without causing more problems than it solves.

It’s not about pretty dashboards, but about having reliable, traceable data ready to report, analyze, or use for decision-making.

Experience in Multisectoral ESG Projects

Every sector has its own peculiarities.
Measuring in heavy industry is not the same as in services or food.

That’s why we need a solution that has worked with different realities.

That guarantees the approach isn’t generic, but brings value from day one, without reinventing processes.

Automation in Data Collection and Validation

If we’re still collecting data manually, we’re losing time and precision.

The solution we choose must be able to connect to our sources, collect data, and validate it automatically.

Automating isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
It’s the only way to scale control without overwhelming the team.

Compatibility with Reporting and Certification Platforms

Everything we measure must be usable for reporting, verification, and audits.

If the solution doesn’t generate data compatible with CSRD, EINF, SBTi, or ISOs, it’s not suitable.

It must be designed to answer what current and future regulations require.
Measuring just for internal use means stopping halfway.

Technical and Strategic Support

Measuring isn’t just a technical issue.
We also need to know what to do with the data.

The ideal solution should include a way of working that combines technology with expert guidance.

At Dcycle, for example, we’re not auditors or consultants, but we do provide strategic support that lets you make decisions from day one.

No theories, just concrete actions.

Scalability and Adaptation to International Frameworks

Requirements are going to change.
What works for a small report today will be a legal requirement tomorrow.

So the solution must be able to grow with our company.

Something that falls short in six months won’t do.
We need a solid base that adapts to any ESG framework we might have to meet.

4 Main Frameworks and Methodologies for Measuring Corporate Environmental Impact

1. GHG Protocol: Emission Measurement by Scopes

The GHG Protocol is the starting point for emission measurement.
It classifies emissions into Scope 1, 2, and 3, and defines how they should be accounted for.

It is essential if we want to be aligned with global and comparable standards.
It’s the foundation on which many other frameworks are built.

2. ISO 14001 and 14064: Environmental Management Systems and Emission Calculation

ISO 14001 helps structure our environmental management system, while ISO 14064 focuses on how we quantify and verify our emissions.

Taking these standards into account makes our measurement process robust, prepares us for audits, and facilitates international recognition.

3. GRI: Standards for Sustainability Reporting

If we want to create complete and credible reports, GRI is the reference framework.
It establishes which indicators should be included and how they must be presented.

It lets us connect environmental data with social and governance aspects.

It’s key if we are building a solid and transparent ESG strategy.

4. CDP, CSRD and Other Regulatory Frameworks

Reporting is no longer optional, and there are more and more frameworks demanding structured and verifiable environmental data.

CSRD in Europe, CDP globally… all ask for well-organized information.

The solution we choose must be ready to meet these frameworks.
If it’s not, sooner or later we’ll have to change it.

Better to do things right from the start.

When is the Best Time to Start Measuring Your Environmental Impact

The short answer: now.
Waiting to have everything “perfectly in order” only delays the inevitable.
More and more companies are measuring their impact and adapting.

If we don’t, we’ll be left behind.

If You’re Preparing Mandatory Reports (CSRD, EINF, etc.)

Regulations are not announced, they are applied.

If we need to submit an EINF or adapt to the CSRD, we need to have clear and structured data now.

The sooner we start measuring, the more time we have to get organized.

Arriving late to these reports is risking fines, loss of credibility, and missed opportunities.

Before Entering New Markets or Signing Agreements with Large Clients

Large supply chains are demanding environmental traceability.
If we can’t prove our impact with concrete data, we’re excluded from the process.

Measuring on time allows us to be ready, with solid arguments and no improvising.
That way, we play on equal terms.

When You Want to Improve Your ESG Positioning

Reputation is not built on speeches today, but on data.
If we want to position ourselves as a serious company in sustainability, we have to prove it.

And we only achieve that by measuring rigorously, consistently, and aligned with the most demanding frameworks.

If You Want to Identify Improvement and Savings Opportunities

Measuring isn’t just for compliance, but also for saving.

Seeing where we’re losing energy efficiency, wasting materials, or generating hidden costs is key.

With data in hand, we can optimize processes, renegotiate with suppliers, or redesign flows.

And that directly impacts profitability.

Why Dcycle is the Ideal Platform to Measure and Manage Your Corporate Environmental Impact

At Dcycle we’re not consultants or auditors.

We are a solution designed so that any company, from any sector, can measure its ESG impact without complications.

We collect all your environmental, social, and governance data and structure it so you can use it wherever needed.

Whether to comply with CSRD, the Taxonomy, SBTi, EINF, ISO or any other requirement you face.

We integrate with your systems, automate data collection, and give you a clear view of what’s happening.

You don’t need to be an expert or dedicate weeks to this.
You just need to want to move forward.

Dcycle turns sustainability into a strategic lever.
Because it’s not about pretending, it’s about acting with data and consistency.

And today, that makes the difference in any market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Indicators Are Used to Measure Corporate Environmental Impact?

It depends on the company and its activities, but there are key indicators that almost always repeat:

CO₂ emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3), energy consumption, water use, waste generation, and raw material consumption.

Aspects like transportation, supply chain, or the product’s impact during use are also measured.

The important thing is not just having them, but knowing how to relate them to our real operations.

Among the most critical indicators, the Carbon Footprint stands out, as it provides a comprehensive view of greenhouse gas emissions associated with a company’s operations. Measuring it accurately is essential for any sustainability strategy.

Which Sectors Should Prioritize This Measurement?

Any sector that wants to remain competitive needs to measure.

However, there are sectors where regulatory and market pressure is stronger: industry, energy, transport, construction, food, and textile, for example.

If we operate in a heavily regulated environment, with demanding suppliers or public exposure, starting to measure is no longer optional.

It’s a condition for operating.

How Much Does It Cost to Implement an Environmental Measurement Solution?

It will depend on the approach.

If we do it with manual processes and no structure, the cost lies in the time lost by the team and in the mistakes we make.

With a solution like Dcycle, the cost is transparent and proportional to the value obtained.
We collect data automatically, avoid errors, and reduce internal effort.
What used to take weeks now is resolved in days.

Is It Mandatory to Measure Environmental Impact in My Country or Sector?

In many sectors, yes.
And in others, it is on its way to becoming mandatory.

Regulations like CSRD in Europe or sectoral requirements are pushing companies to have their ESG data in order.

Even if it’s not mandatory yet in your case, don’t get complacent.
Being prepared is an advantage.
Being late leaves you with no room to maneuver when the market or law requires it.

Can I Use This Data in My ESG or Regulatory Reports?

Yes, if the data is well measured and structured.

The data we collect must be compatible with the frameworks we are required to report to: EINF, CSRD, SBTi, ISO, GHG Protocol, or Taxonomy, among others.

That’s exactly what we do at Dcycle.

We prepare data so you can use it directly in regulatory or sustainability reports, without having to redo anything or depend on third parties.

You decide how and when to use them.

Take control of your ESG data today.
Take control of your ESG data today.
Start nowRequest a demo

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Can You Calculate a Product’s Carbon Footprint?

Carbon footprint calculation analyzes all emissions generated throughout a product’s life cycle, including raw material extraction, production, transportation, usage, and disposal.

The most recognized methodologies are:

  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
  • ISO 14067
  • PAS 2050

Digital tools like Dcycle simplify the process, providing accurate and actionable insights.

What Are the Most Recognized Certifications?
  • ISO 14067 – Defines carbon footprint measurement for products.
  • EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) – Environmental impact based on LCA.
  • Cradle to Cradle (C2C) – Evaluates sustainability and circularity.
  • LEED & BREEAM – Certifications for sustainable buildings.
Which Industries Have the Highest Carbon Footprint?
  • Construction – High emissions from cement and steel.
  • Textile – Intense water usage and fiber production emissions.
  • Food Industry – Large-scale agriculture and transportation impact.
  • Transportation – Fossil fuel dependency in vehicles and aviation.
How Can Companies Reduce Product Carbon Footprints?
  • Use recycled or low-emission materials.
  • Optimize production processes to cut energy use.
  • Shift to renewable energy sources.
  • Improve transportation and logistics to reduce emissions.
Is Carbon Reduction Expensive?

Some strategies require initial investment, but long-term benefits outweigh costs.

  • Energy efficiency lowers operational expenses.
  • Material reuse and recycling reduces procurement costs.
  • Sustainability certifications open new business opportunities.

Investing in carbon reduction is not just an environmental action, it’s a smart business strategy.