Amid global disruptions, progress toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is falling behind, with just 17% of targets on track for the 2030 deadline. At the same time, generative AI is transforming industries, with 97% of business leaders identifying it as crucial for innovation and reinvention over the next three to five years.
In response, the UN Global Compact, in partnership with Accenture, has released a new report titled “Generative AI for the Global Goals: The Private Sector’s Guide to Accelerating Sustainable Development with Technology”. The report offers a roadmap for business leaders to leverage generative AI to advance the SDGs by improving efficiency, boosting innovation, and streamlining sustainability efforts.
Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact said, “At this critical juncture, generative AI isn’t just a technological advancement—it’s a transformative tool that offers unprecedented opportunities for the private sector to accelerate progress of the Sustainable Development Goals. However, the potential of this technology can only be realized if it is harnessed responsibly, with due consideration to the ethical implications and sustainability impacts. The UN Global Compact remains committed to guiding businesses on this journey, ensuring that AI technologies are used to benefit both people and the planet.”
While the report highlights generative AI’s promise, it also addresses risks, urging companies to adopt ethical governance and align AI strategies with the UN Global Compact’s Ten Principles. The report calls on businesses to take bold steps to bridge the gap in meeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The report found that generative AI can enhance predictive analytics and maintenance, reducing energy consumption and downtime, and allowing businesses to manage limited resources sustainably.
Additionally, AI can conduct lifecycle assessments, track carbon footprints, and engage suppliers in sustainable practices, ensuring high standards throughout supply chains. Generative AI accelerates the development of sustainable products and services, especially in areas like green finance and sustainable materials.
The report also highlights that by automating data collection and analysis, AI can transform sustainability reporting, ensuring compliance with global regulations and improving organizational understanding of sustainability goals.
“The optimistic vision that generative AI makes the world more inclusive, sustainable, equitable and fair hinges on its responsible development and deployment,” added Stephanie Jamison, global resources industry practice lead and global sustainability services lead at Accenture.
She added, “In using generative AI to help advance the Global Goals, the private sector must lead from the front by building trust and transparency that balances the need to maximize value while minimizing potential risks as we move to a more equitable and sustainable future for all.”
The report includes case studies and interviews with private-sector leaders, offering businesses actionable insights and resources to use generative AI for both social and environmental benefit.
