Artificial intelligence applications implication for ESG performance: can digital transformation of enterprises promote sustainable development?
Abstract
Purpose
In the global context, artificial intelligence (AI) technology and environmental, social and governance (ESG) have emerged as central drivers facilitating corporate transformation and the business model revolution. This paper aims to investigate whether and how the application of AI enhances the ESG performance of enterprises.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses panel data from Chinese A-share listed companies spanning the period from 2012 to 2022. Through a multivariate regression analysis, it examines the impact of AI on the ESG performance of enterprises.
Findings
The findings suggest that the application of AI in enterprises has a positive impact on ESG performance. Internal control systems within the organization and external information environments act as mediators in the relationship between AI and corporate ESG performance. Furthermore, corporate compliance plays a moderating role in the connection between AI and corporate ESG performance.
Originality/value
This paper underscores the pivotal role played by AI in enhancing corporate ESG performance. It explores the pathways to improving corporate ESG behavior from the perspectives of internal control and information environments. This discussion holds significant implications for advancing the application of AI in enterprises and enhancing their sustainable governance capabilities.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This article was funded by the Young Scientists Project of National Key Research and Development “Innovative Theory and Methods of Smart Contracts and Law” (2022YFB2701800), the National Social Science Fund Major Project “Research on the Legal Path of Integrating Socialist Core Values into Industry Regulation System Construction” (No. 20VHJ007) and “Research on the Legal System of Public Data Technology Standards under the Background of Data China” (No. 21ZD200), Ministry of Education Humanities and Social Sciences Key Research Base Major Project “Research on human rights protection and financial order governance” (19JJD820010), Major Project of Fujian Provincial Social Science Research Base “Research on the Role and Development of Minnan Marine Culture in Legal Cooperation among Countries Along the Maritime Silk Road” (No. FJ2023JDZ013).
Citation
Chen, R. and Zhang, T. (2024), "Artificial intelligence applications implication for ESG performance: can digital transformation of enterprises promote sustainable development?", Chinese Management Studies, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/CMS-11-2023-0653
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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