Artificial intelligence and ESG in resources-intensive industries: Reviewing the use of AI in fisheries, mining, plastics, and forestry

Abstract

An important application of artificial intelligence (AI) is to facilitate the implementation of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) across complex and multi-tiered value chains. Solving the challenges faced by (un)sustainable practices in global industries has become a priority for corporate actors, states, and civil society, legitimized by both ethical and legal arguments. In fisheries, mining, plastics, and forestry, despite its potential to improve ESG practices, AI technologies also risk furthering consumption practices, thus negatively affecting socio-economic and environmental sustainability. We highlight the potential for direct positive impacts of AI on each of the environmental, social, and governance mechanisms throughout the four industries. However, we also point to the risks that indirect impacts of AI-powered tools entail on ESG practices and the potential for industries to disconnect themselves from these indirect impacts. Finally, we suggest that the widespread use of AI to optimize consumption processes, without questioning overconsumption patterns, risks creating unsustainable practices at the global level.