FREE ESG Data Collection Starter Template for UK SMEs
A practical starter template to help small and medium-sized businesses begin tracking the ESG data that matters
ESG data is no longer something only large corporates need to worry about. Customers are asking for it. Tenders are requesting it. Supply chain questionnaires keep landing in your inbox. And most SMEs have no structured way of collecting the answers.
This free ESG Data Collection Starter Template gives you a clean, simple Excel spreadsheet to capture the environmental, social and governance data that SMEs are most often asked about.
This is deliberately a starter. It covers around 30 of the most commonly requested ESG metrics. Once you’ve worked through it and are comfortable with the basics, we can provide more detailed templates and short consultancy sessions to help you build a fuller picture, including full Scope 3 across your value chain and a materiality assessment focused on what matters most for your business.
Download the template and start collecting the data that will win you more tenders, stronger customer relationships and a clearer path through your sustainability journey.
What’s inside the template:
- A ‘Start Here’ tab – explaining how to use the template and best-practice tips for getting started
- An Environmental tab – covering Scope 1, Scope 2 and basic Scope 3 emissions, energy use, renewable energy share, water, waste and supplier environmental risk
- A Social tab – covering workforce diversity, pay equity, employee turnover, health and safety, mental health, training and community contribution
- A Governance tab – covering board diversity, ESG accountability, anti-bribery training, data protection and supplier code of conduct
- A Glossary tab – explaining the key terms and units, including Scope 1, 2 and 3, tCO2e, kWh, FTE and materiality
- Space to record two reporting years side by side – so you can track year-on-year progress from the start
Who this template is for:
- SMEs being asked for ESG or Scope 3 data by corporate customers
- Businesses responding to tenders with sustainability or ESG sections
- Operations directors, MDs and sustainability leads who want to get organised before the next data request lands
- Manufacturers, construction businesses, professional services firms and facilities management providers who are starting their ESG journey
Fill out the form below to download your free ESG Data Collection Starter Template
Frequently Asked Questions…
What is an ESG data collection template?
An ESG data collection template is a structured spreadsheet or form used to gather environmental, social and governance data in a consistent way. It helps businesses record the same information year on year, which is the foundation of credible ESG reporting.
What data does this template cover?
The template covers around 30 core starter metrics across three tabs: Environmental (Scope 1, Scope 2 and basic Scope 3 emissions, energy, water, waste and suppliers), Social (workforce, pay, health and safety, training and community) and Governance (board, ethics, data protection and supply chain).
Sustainability and ESG consultants help businesses navigate complex regulations and standards, ensuring compliance and therefore reducing legal risks. They can also help to improve a company’s overall reputation by aligning its operations with socially responsible practices, which can attract eco-conscious customers and investors. Sustainability consultants also focus on long-term strategic planning, enabling businesses to strive towards achieving key environmental improvements.
Is the template free?
Yes. The template is free to download in exchange for your email address. We use your details only to send you the template and occasional practical ESG guidance for SMEs. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Who is the template for?
It’s designed for UK SMEs, including manufacturers, construction firms, professional services businesses and facilities management providers. It’s especially useful for businesses being asked for ESG or Scope 3 data by customers or in tenders.
ESG consultants focus on a company’s performance across three core areas—Environmental, Social, and Governance. They help businesses assess and improve their practices in areas like carbon footprint, diversity, ethics, and corporate governance. The objective of an ESG consultant is to align the company’s operations with investor expectations, regulatory requirements, and broader social responsibilities..
A Sustainability Consultant typically takes a broader view, aiming to support businesses in developing sustainability strategies and practices that focus on long-term environmental, social, and economic sustainability. This can include everything from reducing waste and energy use, to ensuring sustainability within the supply chain and promoting social responsibility within the company.
Environmental consultants specifically focus on the environmental aspects of a business’s operations. They assess environmental impact, help support compliance to environmental regulations, and develop strategies to mitigate negative environmental effects, such as pollution, waste, and resource depletion.
Does it cover Scope 3 emissions?
The template includes a basic Scope 3 section covering business travel, employee commuting, purchased goods and services, upstream transport and waste in operations. This gives you a starting point. For a full Scope 3 assessment across all 15 categories, we offer detailed templates and consultancy support.
Do I need to be an ESG expert to use it?
No. The template includes a Start Here tab with step-by-step guidance, and a Glossary tab explaining the key terms and units. Most SMEs find they can fill in the basics with a short conversation across operations, HR and finance.
What happens after I download it?
You’ll receive the template by email, along with best-practice guidance on getting the most from it. A week later we’ll check in to see how you’re getting on and offer support if you need it. No pressure, no sales calls unless you ask for one.
Ready to go further?
If you’d like help building out a full ESG baseline, including Scope 3 across your value chain, a materiality assessment and a clear road map, try our free Enveglas ESG Progress Checker or book a free Discovery Call.