On July 13th, the “Digital Age, A Pathway to Sustainability” Forum held at The Korean Foundation of Advanced Studies marked a momentous occasion with the launch of the Digital-ESG (Environmental. Social, and Governance) Assessment and Reporting Standards. The global think-tank, DQ Institute, known for its dedication to setting global standards for digital intelligence, collaborated with Taejae Future Consensus Institute, a leading think-tank in Korea, to introduce this framework. The event saw the participation of distinguished personalities, including Ban Ki-moon, the 8th UN Secretary-General, and Irina Bokova, the former Director General of UNESCO, highlighting the significance of the Digital-ESG in shaping the future of sustainability.
Addressing Digital-Related Risks and Fostering Human-Centred Technology
In an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, the rapid digital transformation of industries has brought a lot of challenges. To minimize the risks posed by AI and digital-related issues like child online safety, cyber-attacks, and privacy invasions, the DQ Institute designed the Digital-ESG Assessment and Reporting Standards. These standards go beyond traditional ESG frameworks, encompassing digital-specific aspects, and emphasizing the need for human-centred technology in the AI age. By promoting ethical standards and accountability, the Digital-ESG aims to create a balance between harnessing technology’s potential and safeguarding societal well-being.
Incorporating Digital-ESG into Sustainability Strategies: A Balance between Technology and Responsibility
While the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and existing ESG frameworks predominantly focus on climate-related issues, the rising digital concerns have been overlooked. The introduction of the Digital-ESG marks a paradigm shift in the global agenda by providing a comprehensive checklist and framework for companies and investment communities. This integration of Digital-ESG into sustainability strategies ensures that companies uphold their responsibilities and accountability in the digital environment. By doing so, coexistence can be achieved between technological advancements and the protection of citizens, digital and physical planets, and global society.
Emphasizing Critical Issues in the Digital Age: A Call for Expanded ESG Frameworks
As the world races for AI dominance, the private sector’s role in achieving sustainability and accountability becomes crucial. Mr. Ban Ki-moon emphasizes the need to expand the traditional ESG framework to incorporate various aspects of companies’ digital activities. The Digital-ESG aims to address crucial issues such as digital inclusion, safety & security, digital rights, ethics, and stakeholder engagement. By integrating these concerns into sustainability strategies, companies can make positive contributions to society while maximizing their profits through responsible digital activities.
The launch of the Digital-ESG Assessment and Reporting Standards marks a transformative moment in the pursuit of sustainability in the AI age. As AI and emerging technologies continue to shape the future, addressing digital-related risks becomes imperative. The Digital-ESG framework empowers companies to embrace human-centred technology, bring transparency, and adhere to ethical standards. By expanding ESG frameworks to encompass digital concerns, a holistic approach to sustainability can be achieved, ensuring a harmony between technology and responsible corporate practices.
As the global community grapples with the complexities of the digital age, the DQ Institute’s efforts in setting global standards for digital intelligence and safety are commendable. Collaboration between various sectors, academia, and public agencies, as exemplified by the Taskforce on Digital-related Financial Disclosure (TDFD), plays a pivotal role in supporting organizations to adopt, integrate, and report on Digital-ESG goals. With foresightedness and proactive measures, we can pave the way for a sustainable future, where technology is harnessed responsibly for the greater good of humanity and the planet.