INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGY AND ESG PRINCIPLES IN BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS ECOSYSTEM

Abstract

In the era of digital disruption and increasing focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, integrating digital technology with ESG principles is a strategic imperative, yet its systematic deployment remains underexplored. This qualitative-descriptive study addresses this gap by investigating how digital technologies can cultivate resilient, sustainable business ecosystems, employing a synthesis of international literature and purposive case studies of leading multinational corporations (MNCs). Findings indicate that innovationsspecifically Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are vital enablers, structurally reinforcing the Triple Bottom Line and Stakeholder Theory by significantly enhancing transparency, operational excellence, and accountability across all ESG pillars. The research proposes a novel integrated ESG governance framework while simultaneously identifying critical barriers, notably the digital divide between MNCs and SMEs, high implementation costs, and ethical concerns. The clear implication is that companies must strategically embed ESG values into their digital innovation roadmaps to future-proof operations and create lasting value, necessitating inclusive digital policies to facilitate equitable global adoption.