Harnessing Technology for ESG Transformation

Co - Authored with Ganapathy VS, Associate Partner, Data, AI and Analytics, KPMG in India

In today's interconnected world, technology plays a pivotal role in driving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices within organisations. From reducing carbon footprints to fostering social inclusivity and ensuring ethical governance, the digital fabric of organisations is undergoing a profound transformation.

In today’s evolving landscape, digital technologies are reshaping economies, businesses, the nature of work itself. This is happening in parallel to unprecedented focus and awareness of humanity’s impact on our planet, and what all organisations needs to do to keep ESG front and centre of their agenda.

Innovation and transformation initiatives need to be made ESG aware to make sure that the power of digital is aligned in the right direction

Sushant Rabra

Partner, Digital Strategy

KPMG in India

Integration of ESG into digital strategies

Organisations are increasingly integrating ESG considerations into their digital strategies, recognising the interconnectedness between sustainability, societal impact, and business success. Technologies such as big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) are instrumental in collecting, analysing, and interpreting vast amounts of ESG-related data, enabling organisations to make informed decisions.

The direct benefits of tech interventions include transparency in reporting, reduced cost of compliance, thereby accelerating the net zero timelines

Ganapathy VS

Associate Partner, Data, AI and Analytics

KPMG in India

Sustainable operations and supply chains

Technology enables organisations to optimise their operations and supply chains for sustainability, leading to reduced resource consumption, waste, and emissions. Blockchain technology, for instance, facilitates transparent and traceable supply chains, ensuring ethical sourcing and responsible production practices.

Ethical governance and transparency

Technologies such as distributed ledger technology (DLT) and AI-powered auditing tools enhance transparency, accountability, and ethical governance within organisations. Digitalisation of reporting processes streamlines ESG disclosure, enabling stakeholders to access accurate and real-time information about organisational performance.

By harnessing the capabilities of digital technologies, organisations can not only enhance their ESG performance but also drive meaningful change at scale. It is imperative for stakeholders across sectors to collaborate, innovate, and leverage technology to build a more sustainable and inclusive world for future generations. At KPMG in India, we believe that as organizations navigate the complex landscape of ESG challenges, technology emerges as a powerful enabler of transformation and impact, pushing to make ESG a watermark across the organisation.