Flotilla introduces new tech to aid SMEs in sustainability drive

UK sustainability tech and advisory company, Flotilla, has unveiled a series of new technological solutions aimed at aiding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their pursuit of sustainable business transformation and compliance with national decarbonisation targets.

The latest offerings are designed to streamline the collection of scope 3 carbon emissions data, the most complex and significant data category, which can comprise up to 90% of total emissions.

The technological advancements include a new Application Programming Interface (API) that integrates with SME finance software such as Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero. This innovation aims to automate data collection, enabling real-time measurement and potentially increasing efficiency by up to 60% compared to traditional manual methods. The manual process, often executed by employees over extended periods, is now expected to be significantly expedited, enhancing both accuracy and consistency in data reporting.

Part of Flotilla's Net Zero Transition Project Planning Tool, these advancements equip UK businesses with the tools needed to take responsible action against climate change. Speedier data access allows for better decision-making and enables SMEs to furnish robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) intelligence for time-sensitive bids and tenders, thereby maintaining their competitive edge.

Developed by a team based in Yorkshire, the new suite also optimises in-platform data collection to bolster broader decarbonisation and ESG strategies. The updated design ensures that data remains actionable, adding tangible value to businesses while simplifying the pursuit of net zero strategies. Flotilla's approach aims for seamless data collection across multiple departments, locations, and systems, facilitating improved decision-making for multi-site businesses.

John Rastrick, CEO and Founder of Flotilla, stated, "Innovation is essential to ensuring businesses are equipped with the solutions that enable meaningful business change. It is imperative that all businesses take responsibility for their impact on the planet, and we are proud to be bringing new technology to the market that enables businesses to think and act responsibly in a way that is manageable within the resources that they have and is complimentary to their plans for growth."

Dan Cox, Flotilla Technical Director, echoed similar sentiments: "Carbon data management is a huge issue within businesses and our suite of new tech launches ease the pain points that we see many SMEs struggle with. Intuitive in-platform data collection and automated processes facilitate easier collaboration and visibility between departments, eliminating issues with version control and ownership that can slow down progress. We're very proud of our latest breakthrough in helping SMEs understand their business impact, identify areas of influence, and maximise their potential for sustainable change."

The new API and data collection enhancement are supported by secure data storage, aiming for continuous improvement in data quality. This represents the most recent development in an ongoing roadmap of innovation, which also includes the launch of a new Regulation & Compliance Checker tool earlier this year. This tool aims to simplify regulatory reporting by providing SMEs with a starting point for ESG compliance, outlining the data required based on their selected framework.

Aaron Thomas, Consultant at Hatmill, commented on Flotilla's approach: "Flotilla is an agile, engaging and responsive business. We connected with Flotilla because it offers versatility, rather than a 'one-size-fits-all' approach, allowing flexibility for our growing needs. Working with Flotilla as a carbon accounting specialist with cutting-edge technology adds credibility and gives us the confidence to lead the industry towards a more sustainable future."