Behind the Scenes with Glenn Hafström – Revolutionising Sustainability Through Technology
We meet Glenn Hafström in his home office in Onsala, Sweden, on a crisp morning, and he’s deep in the middle of a project for a major client. The atmosphere is electric — Glenn is engrossed in crafting a supplier data collection portal, a tool designed to automate workflows and dramatically enhance data quality. This solution might seem as just another IT tool; but in reality it’s a game-changer for the client’s sustainability ambitions.
“Sorry for the mess,” Glenn says with a smile, gesturing to the multiple screens showcasing lines of code, dashboards, and a complex data flow diagram. “We’re building something here that’s going to save the client hundreds of hours and give them a real edge in their sustainability efforts.”
The portal Glenn is working on addresses one of the most challenging aspects of corporate sustainability—managing Scope 3 emissions. By collecting and organising data from hundreds of suppliers, the portal automates significant parts of the reporting process.
“Our client deals with a complex supply chain,” Glenn explains. “They’ve been relying on spreadsheets and manual processes, which are error-prone and time-consuming. With this portal, they’ll not only save time but also gain access to far more reliable data. This will enable them to take actionable steps towards reducing their carbon footprint.”
Glenn Hafström, Icons Of
Glenn pauses to show us how the system identifies anomalies in supplier data (e.g., missing data, inconsistencies, or discrepancies) - something that used to take numerous people a lot of manual labor. “This is where technology really makes a difference,” he says. “It’s not just about automation — it’s about empowering clients to make informed decisions rather than spending time doing work better done by machines.”
As we talk, it’s clear that Glenn isn’t just a tech wizard — he’s also deeply committed to making a tangible impact on the world. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore. Companies are under real pressure to perform. What we’re doing here helps them move beyond compliance and into leadership,” he says.
When asked how he stays motivated, Glenn leans back thoughtfully. “For me, it’s about solving problems that matter. Every time we deliver a project like this, I know we’re making a difference — not just for the client but for the planet.”
The Bigger Picture
Glenn’s work is a perfect example of Icons Of’s ethos: using cutting-edge technology to tackle real-world challenges. As co-founder, Glenn has played a key role in positioning the company as an upcoming leader in sustainability tech.
“This isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of solution,” he explains. “Every client has unique needs, and it’s my job to ensure we’re building systems that are flexible and future-proof. The tech we implement today should still be driving value five years from now.”
Looking Ahead
Even as he wraps up the portal for this client, Glenn is already thinking about the next challenge. “The landscape of sustainability reporting is evolving rapidly,” he says. “Our goal is to stay ahead of the curve and keep delivering tools that make the complex simple.”
Before we leave, Glenn shares one final thought: “At the end of the day, I’m just a guy who loves solving puzzles. It just so happens that these puzzles are helping shape a better future.”
Want to learn more about Glenn Hafström and his work at Icons Of?
Explore our projects and insights on our website, or connect with Glenn on LinkedIn to see how we’re making sustainability smarter, one innovation at a time.
——
We use generative AI tools to assist us in content creation. This is how we work. The original content is drafted by our team, and AI is used to provide inspiration and enhance the editorial process. Final edits and approvals are completed by Icons Of to ensure accuracy.