Previously, we explored specialized software platforms for sustainability accounting.
This question however, is not limited to specialized tool. Some companies might be using other systems too or may not yet have software in place. Using existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) software such as SAP, Odoo, Enablon and even Excel often means lower cost and more flexibility. These are highly configurable and users are naturally familiar with the interface and function.
Platform overview
Let’s have a closer look at these widely used platforms.
- Excel: Everybody knows Excel spreadsheets which helps with everything that’s more complex than a pocket calculator can handle. It is therefore heavily relied upon for manual tracking and reporting, especially in smaller enterprises. Companies use it to record and analyze data on energy usage, carbon emissions, and supply chain transparency.
- SAP: This widely used ERP system helps businesses to manage and track processes end-to-end—from procurement to production, logistics, compliance, and reporting. In the context of sustainability, SAP modules can support carbon accounting, supply chain transparency, and ESG reporting.
- Odoo: Being an open-source ERP system published under GNU license, this tool is particularly interesting when operating on tight margins. With customizable modules for inventory, purchasing, and reporting. Odoo can be tailored to track sustainability metrics, supplier audits, and operational footprints.
- Enablon: The platform is a robust, enterprise-grade software designed to help organizations manage Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) and Operational Risk in a unified way. It can also be used for Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) tracking
Excel
Nearly everyone has access to Excel or free office software such as LibreOffice, OpenOffice and OnlyOffice. It does not require advanced tech infrastructure.
It features tailored dashboards, carbon footprint calculators, and data entry forms. Spreadsheets are great for collecting and cleansing data from various departments before uploading to a central system such as SharePoint or other cloud based data sharing platforms. OnlyOffice even comes with integrated cloud sharing.
What makes Excel stand out:
- Low cost: Perfect for SMEs or early-stage ESG efforts.
- High versatility: Open user interface design and macros deliver unmatched flexibility
- Rapid prototyping: Sustainability KPIs and scenario analysis can be tested without heavy coding or IT support.
Excel is a lightweight, customizable entry point that is highly configurable. Thanks to its widespread use it provides a low entry barrier to sustainability accounting.
SAP
SAP is a professional sustainability accounting tool especially when the SAP Sustainability Control Tower or SAP S/4HANA modules are used. Being and integrated system, the platform pulls data directly from enterprise operations such as finance, procurement, supply chain and allows for a unified sustainability view. It helps to ensure alignment with frameworks like the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), GRI, and others. SAP is audit ready as it tracks changes and ensures consistency across reporting cycles.
What makes SAP stand out:
- Enterprise-grade scalability: ideal for large organizations managing complex operations.
- Sustainability focus: Built-in sustainability-specific modules and machine learning analytics help to forecast impacts and performance.
SAP is a solid and heavy-duty, enterprise-aligned command center for sustainability accounting and tracking.
Odoo
Odoo is a powerful open-source business management software suite that brings together a wide range of applications under one roof. Think of it as a digital Swiss Army knife for businesses. It covers everything from accounting and inventory to customer relationship management (CRM), e-commerce, project management, and even manufacturing.
What makes Odoo stand out:
- Modular Design: You can start with just one app (like invoicing or sales) and add more as your needs grow.
- Two Editions: The Community edition is free and open-source, while the Enterprise edition includes extra features and support.
- Highly Customizable: Thanks to its open-source nature, developers around the world contribute thousands of apps and modules, making it incredibly flexible.
- All-in-One Platform: Instead of juggling multiple tools, Odoo integrates everything into a single, seamless system.
It’s especially popular with small to medium-sized businesses looking for an affordable yet comprehensive ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution. Want to dive into a specific module or see how it compares to other tools?
https://www.odoo.com/
Enablon
Enablon is a comprehensive integrated ESG, risk, and compliance management platform. It centralizes everything from compliance tracking to performance dashboards. It can be used by enterprises aiming to meet complex standards like the EU’s CSRD while managing sustainability, safety, and regulatory risks in one place.
It’s designed for larger enterprises and helps manage:
- Sustainability performance tracking
- Regulatory compliance
- Health, safety, and environmental (HSE) risks
Enablon is known for integrating data from across an organization to support real-time dashboards, audits, and sustainability reporting aligned with frameworks like CSRD and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
Here’s what makes Enablon a standout:
- Integrated Platform: It combines EHS, ESG, Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC), and Operational Excellence into one system—ideal for companies aiming to streamline sustainability and risk management.
- Modular Solutions: Includes tools for incident management, emissions tracking, audit and compliance, product stewardship, and more.
- Real-Time Insights: Dashboards and analytics help organizations monitor performance, benchmark across sites, and respond proactively to risks.
- Regulatory Compliance: Supports global standards and helps companies stay ahead of evolving regulations while producing auditable, investor-grade ESG reports.
However, it is more useful for industries with complex operations—like energy, chemicals, and manufacturing—where safety, compliance, and sustainability are mission-critical.
Focus on Swiss SMEs
Swiss SMEs have unique needs when it comes to sustainability tools: they often operate with leaner teams, need cost-effective solutions, and must comply with both Swiss and EU regulations. Based on broader market insights, our ranking balances between functionality and accessibility:
1. Excel (with templates)
Still a go-to for many SMEs. While not ideal for scaling, Excel remains useful for early-stage tracking. It is strong especially when paired with templates for carbon accounting or ESG reporting. It is low-cost and familiar everyone but requires many manual steps.
2. Odoo
This open-source ERP is highly modular and budget-friendly. Swiss SMEs can use Odoo to manage procurement, inventory, and even build custom dashboards for sustainability KPIs. It’s especially appealing for companies that want flexibility without high licensing costs.
3. SAP Business One or SAP Sustainability Control Tower
SAP is widely used in Switzerland. For SMEs, SAP Business One offers ERP capabilities with sustainability extensions, while the SAP Sustainability Control Tower helps track ESG metrics and carbon footprints. It is robust but may require external support for setup.
Pros and Cons in a nutshell:
- Excel shines in flexibility for grassroots efforts.
- SAP rules in scalability and enterprise-wide integration.
- Odoo offers an open playground for customization at lower cost.
- Enablon is a sustainability powerhouse with the price and complexity to match.
| Tool | Pros | Cons |
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| Excel |
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| SAP |
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| Odoo |
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| Enablon |
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Image: Pixabay
