Custom rules allow you to map commonly used emission factors to simple, reusable names. This means users don’t need to manually select detailed sub-categories every time they enter or import data.
Rules are most commonly used during emissions imports, but also apply wherever emission factors are selected.
What custom rules are
A custom rule links a condition (what the data looks like) to an action (which emission factor should be used).
In practice, this lets you say:
“When the emission category looks like Electricity, always use UK electricity – kWh.”
This turns complex emission factor structures into simple, predictable choices.
Where rules can be created
Custom rules can be created in two ways:
From the Custom Rules section
Directly from the Conversion Factors area
Both methods create the same type of rule.
Option 1: Creating a rule from Custom Rules
Go to Settings, then Data Upload, then Custom Rules, and select Add Rule.
Rule setup explained
Name
Give the rule a clear, recognisable name. This is what users will see during imports.
Type
Defines what the rule controls. For emissions imports, this is typically an activity-based conversion factor.
Conversion factor source
Choose where the emission factor comes from, such as the UK Government DEFRA GHG Conversion Factors.
⬇️ Insert screenshot: rule with name “Electricity” and DEFRA source selected
Conditions
Conditions define when the rule should apply. For example, when the emission category is “Electricity”.
Conditions are matched during data entry or import.
Actions
Actions define what happens when the condition is met. This is where you select the emission factor hierarchy, including group, category, sub-categories, and measurement unit.
Once saved, this rule acts as a shortcut to the full emission factor path.
Option 2: Creating a rule from Conversion Factors
Rules can also be created directly while browsing emission factors.
Go to Settings, then Company Settings, then Conversion Factors. Find the emission factor you want to reuse and select Create Rule from the actions menu.
This automatically pre-fills the rule with the selected emission factor.
How rules are used
Once created, rules appear as selectable options during emissions imports and data entry. Users can select the rule instead of manually navigating the emission factor hierarchy.
This significantly reduces setup time and prevents inconsistent categorisation.
Things to be aware of
Rules apply across the organisation. They do not change the underlying emission factors. Deleting or changing a rule does not alter existing imported data. Clear naming is important to avoid confusion during imports.