Insights from Neil Cawse on Geotab’s 2023 Sustainability and Impact Report

Today, Geotab published its third Sustainability and Impact Report, sharing our progress and path ahead. 2023 was a milestone year. Geotab reached 4 million vehicle subscriptions globally and more than 70% of the subscription base used at least one of Geotab’s sustainable fleet solutions. By providing trusted data-driven insights and greater application of AI, we are enabling real, transformative change within the transportation industry. 

We are learning a great deal from our journey to net zero. However, it is increasingly clear to me that the greatest impact we can have is supporting customers in starting, managing and measuring their sustainability progress. Data insights are a game changer. From better fuel management, vehicle routing, reduced idling and emissions, or adopting EVs, quality data provides the guidance needed to successfully report and execute on ambitious plans.

But it’s not easy — there is certainly no one-size-fits-all. Despite best intentions and big goals, the road forward is going to present some tough challenges. We experienced several of these in 2023. So while we are proud of the accomplishments we have made, we know there is much more to do. Managing the hurdles and accelerating the way forward is our moral obligation. 

Stronger Together 

Working together is the way forward — there are just too many issues and needs to be solved in isolation. In 2023, we put together the Geotab Sustainability Alliance, a group of over 28 solution and service providers tackling sustainability challenges who have come together to provide integrated solutions and expertise in areas including charging and energy management, fuel management and route optimization, and EV OEM partnerships to drive better outcomes. It’s impressive to see the impact that can be made with a strong sense of purpose and common goals. 

Challenges Before Us

Improving the sustainability performance of our own company is a critical focus area. Last year, we improved our procurement programming and reduced our Scope 1 and 2 emissions. However, tackling our Scope 3 emissions continues to be a challenge, and we know we’re not alone in this experience. We are seeking greater efficiencies in measuring and reducing emissions from purchased goods and services. This requires more transparency, and we are working closely with suppliers and partners to understand and improve the carbon footprint throughout our entire supply chain. Additionally, as a global business that benefits from on-site and in-person interactions, we saw the rate of travel increase year over year — this continues to be a fine balance of business needs and environmental impact, which I continue to focus on.

Together For the Planet

The world can’t wait. The need for fast, meaningful action is now. We recognize the enormity of this challenge and know it will take a relentless, collaborative effort if we are to make meaningful progress. From my vantage point, I am hopeful and excited. I see the incredible, daily impact that data intelligence and AI are having in driving transformative change for the company, the transportation industry, people and the planet.

To learn more about how we're driving sustainability, see Geotab's 2023 Sustainability and Impact Report and share your thoughts at ceo@geotab.com.