Sopra Steria: A legacy of environmental innovation in the UK and Europe

| minute read

For over two decades, Sopra Steria has been at the forefront of transforming agriculture and environmental management across the UK and Europe. Through a combination of cutting-edge technology, strategic consulting, and innovative solutions, we work alongside Government departments and agencies. Together, we help address environmental and agricultural challenges. From navigating the implications of the UK leaving the EU to implementing new policies, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment to driving sustainability. We focus on improving agricultural efficiency and fostering environmental resilience through innovative and data-driven solutions.

1. Revolutionising agricultural systems in the UK: The Agriculture Middleware Strategy

In 2023, the UK took a monumental step towards modernising its agricultural practices with the launch of the Agriculture Middleware Strategy. Designed to enhance data integration across various farming systems, this pioneering strategy successfully passed its first inspection, setting a new benchmark for agricultural innovation. A key part of this initiative was Sopra Steria’s long-standing 25-year partnership with the Agriculture and Rural Economy (ARE) directorate, through which we were chosen to support the migration of ARE’s Livestock Inspection System (LIS) to the new middleware platform. This marks the first existing application moved into a new environment, underscoring Sopra Steria’s dedication to supporting the agriculture sector in navigating the complexities of the post-EU landscape. By facilitating seamless data exchange and improving system interoperability, Sopra Steria is helping to drive more sustainable and efficient farming practices.

2. Innovating forest management with Biodrone Technology

The world’s forests are vital to our planet's health, acting as the lungs of the Earth and a key resource in the fight against climate change. In 2023, Biodrone, a specialist in drone technology, revolutionised the way we manage these precious resources. Through advanced drone services, Sopra Steria has enabled more accurate and efficient monitoring of forest health, pest control, and reforestation efforts. This technology not only enhances the ability to respond to environmental threats but also opens up new possibilities for conservation. It ensures that our forests remain vibrant and sustainable for generations to come.

3. Preparing for climate change with Phusicos VR in Norway

As climate change accelerates, the need for innovative solutions to ease its impact has never been greater. In 2024, Norway’s Inland County Municipality partnered with Sopra Steria to launch the Phusicos VR project. The ambitious initiative uses virtual reality to prepare communities for climate-related disasters. This immersive platform allows users to experience and plan for scenarios like floods and landslides, improving community resilience and disaster readiness. By combining technology with practical planning, Sopra Steria is helping to set a new standard for climate resilience strategies across Europe.

4. Transforming energy management with SAP S/4HANA in Belgium

Energy efficiency and sustainable resource management are critical to achieving global climate goals. In 2024, Sopra Steria played a key role in helping Ecopower, one of Belgium’s leading energy providers, transition to SAP S/4HANA. This state-of-the-art Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system streamlines operations and enhances the company’s ability to manage its energy resources more effectively. By leveraging advanced technology, Ecopower is now better positioned to deliver sustainable energy solutions, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental stewardship.

5. Leading the charge in climate action and sustainable development

Sopra Steria’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond individual projects; it’s a core part of the company’s identity. In 2023, inclusion in the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) Climate ‘A’ List rewards Sopra Steria for making climate action ‘business as usual’ in its operations across Europe, supply chain and services to clients.

We’re proud to have been recognised as a world class leader in managing our impact on climate change and addressing wider environmental issues. EcoVadis awarded Sopra Steria a platinum rating, recognising our performance against 21 social, ethical, environmental and supply chain criteria, placing us within the top 1% of global companies. We’re also ranked 7th (out of 400 companies) in The Financial Times European Climate Leaders List.

Sopra Steria’s success in this area not only benefits the environment but also sets a powerful example for other businesses to follow.

A Commitment to a Sustainable Future

Sopra Steria’s work in agriculture, environmental management, and sustainability illustrates our forward-thinking approach to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. By blending technology with a deep understanding of environmental needs, Sopra Steria is not just contributing to the present but is actively shaping a more sustainable future. As we look ahead, our ambition is that the legacy of Sopra Steria will be one of innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to being custodians of the planet.

“For several decades, we've collaborated with clients, partners, and industry peers to drive transformation in agriculture and environmental management through purpose-driven technology. By applying AI for forest health monitoring, modernising applications, and implementing data-driven solutions, we create a positive impact on farmers, agricultural communities and rural economies. Our work goes beyond agriculture—it's about making a lasting difference for everyone who cares about climate change, as we work to drive progress while protecting our environment, both now and for the future,” said Siobhan Brookman, Executive Client Director for DWP & Defra.

Read more about Environment and Agriculture here.

 

 

An image with a map in the middle and the following logos either side: Kystverket, Norwegian Government, Forestry Commission, République Française, Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, The Scottish Government, Scottish Rural Network, Agence de Services et de Paiement (ASP), Les Paysans de Rougeline, NordGen, Marine Scotland, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.

 

Read more about our Environment and Agriculture solutions.

defra

Related content

Shaping careers: Nana Appiah’s story with the ADCA programme

Nana Appiah, Junior Project Management Officer shares her experiences with the ADCA programme and her role within Defra's Legacy Application Programme.

Shaping careers: Rachel McGurk’s story with the ADCA programme

Rachel McGurk, Junior Project Manager shares her experiences with the ADCA programme and her role in Defra’s Legacy Application Programme.

How efficient application management transformed RPA operations

We provided critical application support for the RPA's live systems to support the inspection of cattle and delivering essential maintenance services.