The Adoption of AI ESG Protocol: A Case of ZenRobotics

[Purpose]This paper points out a research gap on integrated studies between Artificial Intelligence(AI) and ESG(Environment, Social, Governance). In order to fill this gap, the AI ESG Protocol is suggested as a useful framework explaining ESG related impacts of AI in business sectors. Its revised structure consists of four dimensions(initial descriptive statement, main impact statement, strength․weakness․opportunity․threat, and action plan). [Methodology]A case study was conducted on ZenRobotics, a leading firm from Finland operating AI－based waste sorting robots. [Findings]It was found that the initial descriptive statement is related to the firm’s strategy based on its history and vision for sustainable AI. The main impact statement is associated with the analysis of AI－powered sorting procedure generating revenue by extracting new value out of waste at the lower cost. The AI－based sorting operation contains the weaknesses and threats of increasing energy consumptions and causing ethical problems, while giving strengths and opportunities of both economic and scientific values to circular economy. The action plan is related to implementing solutions(standalone, retrofitted, new greenfield solutions). [Implications]Implications are provided for scholars and managers that the active utilization of sustainable AI with the protocol accounts for a role in sustainable development goals for business and society.