Artificial Intelligence and the Sustainable Development Goals: Operationalizing Technology for a Sustainable Future

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping our world, yet there is much uncertainty about its future. While challenges remain surrounding ethics, equity and best practices, AI is transforming industries, driving innovation and redefining how we solve complex problems. The field is developing rapidly, revealing the potential for AI to advance human rights, improve labour conditions, protect the environment and prevent corruption. However, fully realizing these benefits requires intentional design, responsible governance and inclusive participation.

As the urgency of sustainable development intensifies, AI stands out not only as a technological breakthrough but also as a powerful tool to accelerate progress across all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The intersection of AI and the Sustainable Development Goals

Amy Webb, who spoke at last year’s Leaders Summit with the UN Global Compact, discusses the intersection of technology and the SDGs.

At its core, sustainability means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations. AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data, identify patterns and automate decision-making can dramatically increase efficiency, reduce waste and enhance monitoring and reporting across environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts. Defining intersectionalities is a significant proactive step in driving effective results while mitigating potential challenges.

Key intersections include:

• Climate action (SDG 13): AI-driven models improve climate forecasting, support early warning systems and optimize renewable energy deployment.
• Peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16): AI can detect fraud, strengthen transparency and support access to justice but also raises concerns around surveillance and bias that require responsible governance.
  
• Clean water and sanitation (SDG 6): AI can detect leaks, optimize usage and improve water treatment facilities.
  
• Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8): AI can support job creation in several sectors but poses risks to vulnerable workers that must be addressed.

Although there is tremendous potential for AI, it is not without risks. While AI can drive progress, it also brings serious challenges, especially when used in the absence of clear ethical guidelines. When working with AI to solve some of our world’s toughest challenges, it’s imperative to consider:

• Bias and discrimination: AI models trained on non-representative data reinforce inequalities in access to services or employment.
  
• Surveillance and privacy: The use of AI in monitoring must be balanced with respect for human rights.
  
• Labour market disruption: Automation may disproportionately affect low-income and marginalized workers, particularly in the Global South.
  
• Environmental impact: The energy use of large AI models significantly contributes to carbon emissions if not managed sustainably.

Businesses and governments must adopt AI governance frameworks rooted in transparency, accountability and human-centric design. The UN Global Compact encourages companies to align AI use with the SDGs and embed ethical considerations in AI lifecycle management.

What sustainability leaders can do now

The UN Global Compact advocates for a principles-based approach to responsible business, anchored on respecting and supporting human rights, the environment, labour and anti-corruption. Above this baseline of responsible business practices, the UN Global Compact further challenges companies to leverage AI to maximize their contributions to the 2030 Agenda. These frameworks can be used to help assess and mitigate risks around AI development and implementation and to guide companies in leveraging AI applications to advance in key areas where they can have the greatest impact on sustainable development.

For sustainability professionals, anticipating the evolution of AI means focusing on where we are going, not where we’ve been. The leaders of the future will be those who center equity—advocating for tools that reflect diverse voices, especially from underrepresented regions and communities. These leaders will also shape policy by staying informed on AI regulations and contributing to global efforts that govern emerging technologies responsibly.

One immediate action leaders can take is upskilling their teams. Building digital fluency and ethical literacy in AI-related topics ensures organizations are better prepared to navigate the rapidly changing tech landscape. In parallel, embedding AI into environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting can help improve sustainability disclosures and strengthen stakeholder engagement.

Sustainability professionals should also foster multi-sector collaboration by partnering with AI developers, researchers and governments to help ensure AI is designed and implemented in ways that advance sustainable development goals. Ultimately, making equity a priority, participating in shaping policy and leveraging technology to build a more inclusive and sustainable future are paramount.

To learn more, check out the Gen AI for the Global Goals report for additional resources and insights to facilitate the alignment of sustainable business practices with technological advancements.

Looking Ahead

Artificial Intelligence is not a silver bullet—but it is a catalyst. With thoughtful implementation, AI can dramatically speed up our transition to a just, inclusive and sustainable world.

The challenge lies not only in what AI can do but in what we, as a global community, choose to do with it.