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AI delivers the best results when you ask with clarity and context.
These prompt templates show how to guide AI for data mapping, dataset selection, scenario generation, and result interpretation — so every suggestion stays transparent, auditable, and defensible.
Sustainly’s transparent AI copilot is designed to respond to structured, context-rich prompts — giving sustainability teams consistent, explainable results they can trust.

Ground Rules for Effective Prompts

To get reliable outcomes, include clear parameters and expectations in every request:
  • Always specify your functional unit, system boundary, geography, and reference year.
  • Ask AI to list its assumptions and alternatives.
  • Request checks for units, regional fit, and missing stages.
  • Keep prompts concise but rich in context — short, vague prompts lead to generic or incomplete outputs.
💡 Tip: Treat AI like a junior analyst — clear instructions and structure yield better results.

Mapping Prompts (Copy-Ready)

Use these when preparing or harmonizing datasets:
  • “Map these columns to LCA flows. FU: 1 product unit. Boundary: cradle-to-gate. Region: EU. Flag any unit conflicts. Columns: [paste table].”
  • “Suggest the top 3 background datasets for ‘EU steel 18/8, 2024’; explain why they fit regionally and technologically.”
  • “Review supplier material names and map them to canonical flow terms; flag uncertainties or missing units.”
These patterns help AI standardize data while keeping mappings traceable.

Scenario Prompts

Use structured prompts to explore design or logistics changes:
  • “Clone baseline and create three scenarios: (A) +70% recycled steel, (B) truck→train 200 km, (C) product lifetime +5 years. Describe expected impact direction and rationale.”
  • “Model substitution scenario: replace plastic A with bio-based plastic B (same mass). Estimate qualitative change in GWP and resource use.”
  • “Compare 2024 vs 2030 scenario using decarbonized electricity mix; highlight top differences.”
AI can instantly replicate scenarios, but you remain in control of validation and interpretation.

Interpretation Prompts

Turn raw data into clear communication:
  • “Summarize hotspots contributing >80% of climate impact; list two improvement levers with estimated reduction potential; include a short uncertainty note (max 120 words).”
  • “Write an executive summary explaining how transportation and packaging drive results, using non-technical language.”
  • “Create a short paragraph linking hotspot findings to business decisions (procurement, design, or logistics).”
💬 Sustainly Tip: Use interpretation prompts to generate first drafts for stakeholder communication — always review for accuracy before sharing externally.

QA / Consistency Prompts

Ensure data quality and completeness before running the model:
  • “Check if any life cycle stage is missing versus cradle-to-grave; propose data sources for identified gaps.”
  • “Verify unit consistency (kg/km/kWh); suggest fixes for non-SI inputs.”
  • “Scan for double-counted flows or duplicate processes and recommend corrections.”
  • “List processes with missing regional tags or outdated reference years.”
These checks prevent small data errors from compounding into large interpretation issues.

In Sustainly

With Sustainly, you don’t need to copy prompts manually — the platform embeds these capabilities into your workflow.
AI-assisted mapping, built-in consistency checks, and model Q&A features let you ask natural questions like:
  • “What drives most of this impact?”
  • “Which dataset is causing the largest uncertainty?”
  • “How would a recycled material scenario change this result?”
All within a transparent, traceable interface that keeps human experts in control.

FAQ

Can prompts replace expert review?
No — they accelerate your work, but professional verification remains essential.
What if AI suggests the wrong dataset?
Always check the regional and technological fit before approving.
Can I save prompts for future use?
Yes — in Sustainly, you can store prompt templates as project notes or team runbooks.

Why Use Sustainly

Sustainly integrates transparent AI, prompt-based collaboration, and centralized sustainability data in one scalable system.
It’s designed for experts and newcomers alike — helping you apply AI responsibly and confidently.
  • Built-in AI copilot for mapping, validation, and interpretation
  • Centralized data hub for reuse across teams and projects
  • Scalable, auditable workflows with clear human oversight
  • Fast to learn, easy to adopt, and cost-effective for organizations of any size
Sustainly turns AI into a structured, transparent partner — helping sustainability professionals move from manual work to intelligent, data-driven insight.
If you’re looking for a
software to measure product sustainability,
tool to calculate environmental impact of products, or
sustainability analysis software for production processes,
Start with Sustainly and get the clarity and control you need to make AI work for sustainability.