In today’s rapidly evolving world, two driving forces, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), are converging to shape the future of businesses and society. This synergy offers immense potential to address some of the most pressing challenges we face, from mitigating climate change to promoting social inclusion and enhancing corporate governance. However, it is not without its complexities and concerns, as AI introduces a set of unique risks and dilemmas for ESG performance.
Recognizing the importance of better understanding the positive and negative implications of AI for sustainability and that there is limited work done to date addressing these complex issues, Andrea Ruotolo and Alyssa Lefaivre Škopac have established the first leadership working group globally to bring together the collective intelligence needed to raise awareness and propose a path forward.
This will help businesses navigate the complex terrain where AI and ESG converge, guiding them toward making decisions that are not only profitable but also socially and environmentally responsible.
Leading this effort are the following distinguished individuals and organizations:
- Alyssa Lefaivre Škopac: Director of Partnerships and Market Development at The Responsible AI Institute
- Andrea Ruotolo: Global Head of Customer Sustainability/ESG at Rockwell Automation
- David Carlin: Head of Climate Risk and TCFD at the UNEP FI (UN Environment Program Finance Initiative)
- Deval Pandya: Vice President of AI Engineering at the Vector Institute
- Roshni Joshi: Managing Director of Customer Engineering, US Central at Google
While they are representatives of these organizations, these distinguished individuals are working on their personal capacity as practitioners in their domains. As a first step, this core group is actively working on a white paper to provide guidance on integrating Responsible AI metrics into existing ESG standards. This white paper will not only emphasize the critical role AI plays in influencing ESG outcomes and decisions but will also delve into the multifaceted implications of AI on sustainability, social responsibility, and corporate governance.
This endeavor represents a forward-thinking approach to the challenges posed by AI within the ESG framework. It recognizes that the two drivers are inextricably linked and, with the right guidance and principles in place, can work in tandem to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible world. In a time where the stakes are higher than ever, this project underscores the importance of embracing AI responsibly and aligning it with the core values and strategies of ESG. Together, they can drive us toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
If you are interested in participating in future activities with the Leadership Group, please express your interest here.
About The RAI Institute
The Responsible AI Institute (RAI Institute) is a global and member-driven non-profit dedicated to enabling successful responsible AI efforts in organizations. The RAI Institute’s conformity assessments and certifications for AI systems support practitioners as they navigate the complex landscape of AI products.
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