Choosing the right ESG software is crucial to efficiently meet sustainability requirements and avoid greenwashing risks. In the face of growing regulatory obligations such as the CSRD and increasing pressure from customers and investors, many companies are faced with the challenge of systematically recording, managing and transparently communicating their ESG data. This often ties up considerable internal resources and requires specific expertise that is not always available. A specialized software solution automates these processes and integrates sustainability credibly into your brand and reporting.

This article serves as your comprehensive guide to the ESG software market. We present the leading platforms and compare them in detail based on features, pricing and use cases. This allows you to quickly find the solution that fits your business objectives, whether it is for regulatory reporting, strengthening your employer brand or emotional customer loyalty through visible impact. The successful implementation of such systems requires a structured approach, similar to the introduction of project management software to control complex processes across departments.

For each software presented, you will find practical insights, screenshots and direct links to the provider so that you can quickly get a clear picture and make the right decision.

1. measurabl

Measurabl has established itself as the leading ESG software developed specifically for data management in the real estate sector, but is also used across all industries. The platform is characterized by its ability to automatically collect, validate and centralize ESG data from various sources. This makes it much easier to manage complex portfolios and ensures high data quality for reporting.

Measurabl

Companies that require precise and auditable reports for standards such as GRESB, CDP or TCFD benefit from the automated data collection and integrated reporting functions. A special feature is the physical climate risk assessment, which helps to identify potential threats to sites and plan countermeasures. The seamless integration of consumption data makes this ESG software particularly valuable for sustainable building management.

Pricing is not public and requires a direct request, which can be a hurdle for smaller companies. While the user interface is powerful, it can take some time to learn due to the variety of features. Learn why ESG reporting software like Measurabl is critical for transparent sustainability reporting.

Advantages:

  • Centralized data management: All ESG data in one place.
  • High data quality: Automated checks ensure accuracy.
  • Report automation: Facilitates compliance with common ESG standards.

Disadvantages:

  • Complexity: Can be overwhelming for beginners or smaller companies.
  • Non-transparent prices: Requires a request for quotation.

Website: https://www.measurabl.de/ESG-Software/

2. leadity

leadity is a web-based ESG software that supports companies in the development, management and reporting of their ESG strategy. The solution is characterized by its ease of use and predefined industry solutions, which makes it ideal for users who are looking for a fast and flexible web-based solution without complex installation. The focus is on mapping the entire ESG process from strategy to reporting in one tool and providing a complete status overview of all process steps.

A special feature is the AI-supported report generation, which significantly reduces the effort required to create CSRD-compliant reports. The comprehensive stakeholder integration allows all relevant parties to be included in the process. As IDW PS 880-certified software, leadity also offers a high level of reliability and security for auditable results, making it a trustworthy choice in the field of ESG software.

While the platform enables a quick start, the automation of data collection and document management is still under development. Pricing is not public and requires a direct inquiry to receive a quote tailored to individual needs.

Advantages:

  • Quick start: Simple operation and web-based access without installation.
  • Certified security: Certified according to IDW PS 880 for reliable reports.
  • Industry solutions: Predefined templates make it easier to get started.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited data automation: There is still room for improvement in automatic data collection.
  • Non-transparent prices: Requires a request for quotation.

Website: https://www.leadity.com/

3. code Gaia

Code Gaia offers intuitive ESG software that is specifically designed to simplify the collection, analysis and optimization of ESG data. The platform is aimed in particular at companies looking for a high degree of automation and dedicated German-speaking support, which makes it easier to get started and provide ongoing support. Its focus is on the automated collection and processing of information in order to minimize the manual effort involved in ESG reporting.

AI-supported data collection and the automated calculation of ESG key figures are key features of this ESG software. Functions such as integrated document management and EU taxonomy mapping help companies to meet compliance requirements efficiently. The ability to collaborate in real time makes the platform a useful tool for teams working together on sustainability reports who need a central location for all relevant documents and data.

While the high degree of automation and regular updates are impressive, the platform may be limited when it comes to scaling assessment criteria for very large or complex organizations. It also lacks an explicit function for physical climate risk analysis, which can be a disadvantage for certain industries. Pricing is available on request.

Advantages:

  • High degree of automation: Significantly reduces the manual effort involved in data entry.
  • German-speaking support: Provides accessible and fast help for the DACH region.
  • Regular feature updates: The platform is continuously being developed.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited scaling: Could reach its limits with very complex evaluation criteria.
  • No climate risk analysis: Important risk assessments are not integrated.

Website: https://www.codegaia.com/

4. greenly

Greenly has established itself as a leading sustainability management platform that specializes in automatically measuring the environmental impact of companies. The strength of this ESG software lies in its comprehensive and automated carbon accounting, which makes it particularly attractive for companies that want to accurately capture and analyze their emissions data in order to make data-driven sustainability decisions.

Greenly

The platform enables users to monitor their carbon emissions across the entire value chain, including emissions from suppliers. Automated data integration from accounting systems and other sources significantly reduces manual effort. KPI reporting helps to communicate progress transparently and track reduction targets effectively. Thanks to the user-friendly interface, getting started is straightforward, even for teams without in-depth prior knowledge.

While Greenly shines in the area of carbon accounting, there is less focus on the social (S) and governance (G) aspects of the ESG framework. For a holistic ESG strategy, a combination with other tools may therefore be necessary. Prices are not publicly available and will be provided on request.

Advantages:

  • Comprehensive emissions assessment: Detailed analysis of CO? emissions.
  • Automated data integration: Reduces manual effort and sources of error.
  • User-friendly interface: Enables a quick start and simple operation.

Disadvantages:

  • Strong focus on CO? Social and governance aspects are less pronounced.
  • Non-transparent prices: Requires a direct request for quotation from the provider.

Website: https://www.greenly.earth/

5. planted

Planted positions itself as an all-in-one ESG management platform that combines AI-supported software with personal expert advice. The focus is on providing comprehensive support to companies, particularly with regard to CSRD requirements. The ESG software supports the entire process from dual materiality analysis and data collection to final reporting and audit preparation.

Planted

The platform is characterized by its AI-supported double materiality analysis, which accelerates and simplifies the process. It also enables TÜV-certified carbon accounting in accordance with the GHG protocol and systematically records ESRS-compliant data points. A particular added value is the personal support provided by a team of CSRD experts, which makes Planted ideal for companies that prefer a guided implementation of their ESG strategy. The integrated “Climate Academy” also offers employee training.

As a relatively young company, some modules, such as those for the LkSG and the EU taxonomy, are still under development. Pricing is individually prepared on request and is based on the specific needs of the company.

Advantages:

  • All-in-one solution: Combines software, consulting and audit preparation.
  • AI-supported analyses: Efficient data collection and materiality analysis.
  • Personal support: Direct access to a CSRD team of experts.

Disadvantages:

  • Young company: Some modules (e.g. LkSG) are still under construction.
  • Non-transparent prices: Requires a request for quotation.

Website: https://www.planted.green/

6. tanso

Tanso has established itself as a specialized ESG software that is specifically tailored to the needs of medium-sized industrial companies in Germany. The platform solves key challenges in sustainability management by automating and simplifying processes for carbon accounting, ESG data management and the creation of reports in accordance with CSRD, EU taxonomy or CBAM requirements. This makes it ideal for preparing for audits and ensuring compliance.

Tanso

The clear focus on medium-sized industrial companies sets Tanso apart from more broadly based solutions. The software enables a detailed calculation of the corporate carbon footprint (CCF) and the product carbon footprint (PCF) and significantly reduces the manual effort involved in data collection. The user interface is particularly intuitive and makes it easy to get started, even for teams without in-depth ESG expertise. The TÜV certification of the methodology gives companies additional security in terms of audit compliance.

Pricing, as with many specialized providers, is not publicly available and requires an individual inquiry. While the industry focus is a major strength, it could be a limitation for companies outside the manufacturing sector. This ESG software is therefore a tailor-made solution for industrial companies that want to make their sustainability reporting efficient and audit-compliant.

Advantages:

  • Audit-compliant software: TÜV-certified methodology for reliable reports.
  • Ease of use: Intuitive platform that makes it easy to get started.
  • Increased efficiency: Significantly reduces manual effort in reporting.

Disadvantages:

  • Sector focus: Mainly suitable for medium-sized industrial companies.
  • Non-transparent prices: Requires a request for quotation.

Website: https://www.tanso.io/

7. substain

Substain positions itself as ESG software that supports companies in designing their sustainability reports efficiently, precisely and future-proof. The platform is particularly aimed at users who value intelligent analyses, systematic strategy implementation and transparent documentation. By integrating various data sources and continuously monitoring KPIs, the entire ESG process is simplified and made comprehensible for management.

Substain

Substain’s innovative technology enables user-friendly handling while maintaining the highest security standards. Companies benefit from intelligent dashboards that visualize complex ESG data and facilitate decision-making. Particularly noteworthy is the focus on the systematic implementation of the sustainability strategy, which makes Substain a valuable ESG software for operational management. The platform helps not only to meet regulatory requirements, but also to actively integrate sustainability into the core business.

The pricing is created individually on request and is not publicly available. A potential disadvantage is that, depending on the industry, specific adjustments may be necessary in order to tailor the software optimally to the individual needs of a company.

Advantages:

  • Systematic strategy implementation: Supports the operational anchoring of sustainability goals.
  • Transparent documentation: Simplifies tracking and reporting.
  • Intelligent analyses: Dashboards visualize KPIs for better decisions.

Disadvantages:

  • Non-transparent prices: Requires direct contact for a quote.
  • Need for customization: Industry-specific configurations may be necessary.

Website: https://www.substain.de/

8. openESG

openESG specializes in minimum-effort ESG data collection with a clear focus on primary data. The platform is designed to allow companies to collect specific information directly from their customers or partners, with integrated plausibility and validity checks to ensure data quality from the outset. This user-centric approach makes the ESG software particularly interesting for organizations that require customized data queries and place the highest value on data protection.

openESG

The strength of openESG lies in its individual adaptability to specific data requirements and its simple integration into existing systems via API. Companies can use the software to collect targeted ESG information from their supply chain or customers without having to use complex, prefabricated frameworks. This supports accurate and authentic sustainability communication based on verified primary data.

The consistent user orientation and integrated support make it easy to get started and use on an ongoing basis. While the high level of customizability is a major advantage, the range of functions could reach its limits for companies with extremely complex, global reporting requirements. Pricing information is available on request.

Advantages:

  • Focus on primary data: Direct collection of validated data.
  • High customizability: Individual design of data queries.
  • Full integration capability: Seamless connection via API.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited complexity: May not be suitable for all global reporting standards.
  • Prices on request: No public price structure.

Website: https://openesg.de/software/

9. bimanu Cloud

The bimanu Cloud is a comprehensive platform for ESG data management that is characterized by a user-friendly low-code approach and rapid implementation. It enables companies to efficiently automate ESG processes and integrate centralized data from different sources. This makes it an ideal solution for organizations that want to make their ESG compliance scalable and without major programming effort.

The platform is particularly suitable for companies that want to grow with their growing requirements. Thanks to the low-code approach, users can create their own analyses and dashboards relatively easily, which ensures a high degree of flexibility. Another feature is the BAFA-certified energy management system, which supports compliance with specific legal requirements. The bimanu Cloud positions itself as a modern ESG software that meets the requirements of Industry 4.0.

Pricing is not public and is provided on request. While the flexibility and scalability offer great benefits, the solution might be overkill for very small companies or start-ups without complex data structures. The ability to work with a powerful sustainability reporting software like bimanu is crucial to streamline the reporting process.

Advantages:

  • Fast implementation: Low initial outlay thanks to low-code approach.
  • High flexibility: Easy creation of your own analyses and dashboards.
  • Scalability: The platform grows with the company’s requirements.

Disadvantages:

  • Possibly oversized: May be too extensive for very small companies.
  • Non-transparent prices: Requires direct contact for a quote.

Website: https://bimanu.de/

10. position green

Position Green offers a comprehensive end-to-end ESG solution designed to simplify the automation of compliance processes. The software suite covers all ESG needs, with a special focus on centralized data management and deep supply chain integration. This provides companies with a tool to efficiently collect and manage ESG data and use it for strategic decision-making.

Position Green

The platform is characterized by ready-made solutions developed by leading consulting experts, while allowing for customization to specific company structures. A key advantage of this ESG software is its ability to automatically capture data and integrate the entire supply chain, which significantly improves transparency and risk management. Centralized management helps to maintain an overview and meet reporting requirements efficiently. Find out how ESG goals can be effectively implemented in companies with such tools.

Pricing is not publicly available and requires a direct request to the provider. This can be a hurdle for companies that need quick budget planning. Nevertheless, the strategic value for companies looking to optimize their sustainability performance along the entire value chain is undeniable.

Advantages:

  • Centralized management: All ESG data is bundled in one central location.
  • Compliance support: Helps with compliance with common ESG standards and guidelines.
  • Supply chain optimization: Provides tools for integrating and evaluating suppliers.

Disadvantages:

  • Non-transparent prices: Costs are only available on request.

Website: https://www.positiongreen.com/de/esg-software/

11. PROBIS Software GmbH

PROBIS Software GmbH offers a specialized, cloud-based solution for project controlling and cost management in the real estate industry, which has been expanded to include targeted ESG controlling. The platform focuses on end-to-end process automation and the integration of ESG criteria directly into the cost and budget planning of construction and real estate projects. This ESG software therefore addresses a specific niche that is highly relevant for project developers and real estate companies.

The software enables ESG requirements to be anchored directly in the controlling process in accordance with the EU taxonomy. Functions such as digital cost planning, automatic invoice approval and cash flow planning are linked to sustainability aspects. A special feature is the central data structure, which bundles all information across the entire project life cycle and thus ensures a high forecasting quality for financial and environmental key figures.

The clear focus on the real estate sector is both a strength and a weakness. The solution is less suitable for companies outside this sector. The user interface is tailored to the needs of controllers and project managers and requires appropriate specialist knowledge to exploit its full potential.

Advantages:

  • End-to-end process automation: Seamlessly integrates ESG criteria into financial workflows.
  • High forecast quality: centralized data management improves planning accuracy.
  • Specialization: Ideal for cost and ESG controlling in real estate projects.

Disadvantages:

  • Strong industry focus: Limited to the real estate industry.
  • Specialist: Requires expertise in project controlling.

Website: https://www.probis-software.com

Comparison of functions of the 12 leading ESG software programs

Provider Core features / functions User experience / quality ? Value proposition / price ? Target group ? Unique advantages ?
Click A Tree ? Planting trees, collecting plastic, education, biodiversity ?????, simple integration No subscription, no fixed costs ? ESG managers, marketing, HR ? Certified, measurable impact, transparent ?
Measurabl Automated ESG data collection, climate risk assessment ????, high data quality Price unknown Medium to large companies ? Central ESG data management
leadity Flexible all-in-one, AI report generation ????, simple operation Price unknown SMEs, industry solutions ? Fast, web-based, no installation ?
Code Gaia AI-supported data capture, document management ????, German-speaking support Price unknown Automation-savvy companies ? High degree of automation, updates ?
Greenly CO? balancing, emissions monitoring ????, user-friendly Price unknown Companies with CO? focus ? Automatic CO? calculation
Planted AI materiality analysis, CSRD reports ????, personal support Price unknown Companies with CSRD needs ? TÜV-certified, Climate Academy ?
Tanso CO? balance, EU taxonomy, CBAM ????, TÜV-certified Price unknown Medium-sized industry ? Audit-compliant, industry-specific
Substain KPI monitoring, integration, analysis ????, secure software Price unknown Company with a focus on data analysis ? Intelligent dashboards
openESG Primary data acquisition, API integration ???, user-oriented Price unknown Data protection-focused companies ? High individualization, data protection ?
bimanu Cloud Low-code ESG management, BAFA-certified ????, fast implementation Price unknown Growth-oriented industry ? Low-code, ESG Industry 4.0 compliant
Position Green Automatic data capture, supply chain integration ????, central management Price unknown Companies with complex supply chains ? Industry expertise, complete solution
PROBIS Software GmbH Project controlling, cost management, EU taxonomy ????, automated Price unknown Real estate industry ? AI scenario modeling

Conclusion: The right ESG software as a strategic success factor

Choosing the right ESG software is much more than a technical decision; it is a strategic milestone on the path to a resilient and sustainable business. As our detailed analysis of the leading solutions has shown, there is no one “best” software for all. The market offers an impressive variety of tools, ranging from specialized niche solutions for carbon accounting to comprehensive all-in-one platforms for overall ESG management.

The key insight is that the ideal solution must be precisely tailored to your individual needs, your company size and your strategic goals. For a medium-sized industrial company with complex supply chains, the requirements for data collection and reporting (as with Tanso or bimanu Cloud) are completely different from those for an e-commerce store that focuses primarily on credible customer communication and visible impact (as with Greenly or Planted).

Important findings summarized

The journey through the world of ESG software has highlighted some key points:

  • Specialization vs. all-in-one: Weigh up carefully whether you need a specialized solution for an acute challenge (e.g. CSRD reporting with Code Gaia) or a holistic platform (such as Position Green) that can grow with your ambitions.
  • Data quality is crucial: the best tool is useless without reliable data. Make sure that the software supports robust data collection, ideally with automation and direct interfaces to your existing systems.
  • Implementation and support: An intuitive user interface and strong customer support are worth their weight in gold. Consider the effort required for implementation and training your team. Solutions such as leadity or Substain place particular emphasis on this.
  • Thinking beyond reporting: Modern ESG software is no longer just a compliance tool. It is an instrument for management, risk minimization and communication. It helps to establish sustainability not as a cost factor, but as a value driver.

Your next steps for choosing the right software

In order to make the right decision, we recommend a structured approach. Don’t start with the software, but with your strategy.

  1. Carry out a needs analysis: Clearly define your objectives. Is it primarily about fulfilling the CSRD? Do you want to strengthen your employer brand through sustainable commitment? Or is the focus on transparent communication with your customers?
  2. Involve stakeholders: Talk to all relevant departments, from management to marketing to purchasing. Which data points are required? Who will use the software?
  3. Create a shortlist and request demos: Use our overview to select three to four suitable providers. Book personal demo appointments and ask specific questions about your specific use cases.
  4. Check scalability: Think about the future. Can the software grow with your business? Does it support future regulatory requirements and new ESG topics?

Investing in the right ESG software is an investment in the transparency, efficiency and credibility of your company. It transforms complex data into actionable insights and makes your commitment measurable and visible. Instead of seeing sustainability as a burden, the right technology empowers you to see it as a real opportunity to drive innovation, retain customers and equip your business for the challenges of tomorrow.


While many ESG software solutions are focused on reporting and data analysis, Click A Tree allows you to go one step further and connect your sustainability strategy with tangible, positive impact. Instead of just reporting numbers, you can actively contribute to solving global crises by planting trees and telling an emotional, authentic story. Integrate measurable sustainability measures directly into your business model – find out more at Click A Tree.