Paper Number
ECIS2025-1436
Paper Type
SP
Abstract
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping organizations. However, awareness of its sustainability impacts remains limited. This paper reviews the literature and derives GenAI-induced sustainability tensions within and between the ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) dimensions. The review revealed twelve tensions (e.g., business process efficiency vs. energy consumption). Our findings illustrate that organizational GenAI use can simultaneously support and challenge the ESG dimensions. To categorize these findings, we adapted paradox theory to the context of sustainable information systems. This adaptation highlights both positive and negative aspects of GenAI use in organizations. As a practical contribution, our results provide a starting point for organizations to identify their own tensions to achieve a balanced approach to sustainable GenAI use. The next step is to pursue the development of a full paper. The full paper will augment the tension perspective with a synergy perspective and compilation of a research agenda.
Recommended Citation
Kott, Annette; Toptas, Burak; Schötteler, Sebastian; Gross, Rainer; Brockmann, Patricia; and Kosch, Prof. Dr. Harald, "SUSTAINABILITY TENSIONS IN GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE USE" (2025). ECIS 2025 Proceedings. 1.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2025/isresilience/isresilience/1
SUSTAINABILITY TENSIONS IN GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE USE
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping organizations. However, awareness of its sustainability impacts remains limited. This paper reviews the literature and derives GenAI-induced sustainability tensions within and between the ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) dimensions. The review revealed twelve tensions (e.g., business process efficiency vs. energy consumption). Our findings illustrate that organizational GenAI use can simultaneously support and challenge the ESG dimensions. To categorize these findings, we adapted paradox theory to the context of sustainable information systems. This adaptation highlights both positive and negative aspects of GenAI use in organizations. As a practical contribution, our results provide a starting point for organizations to identify their own tensions to achieve a balanced approach to sustainable GenAI use. The next step is to pursue the development of a full paper. The full paper will augment the tension perspective with a synergy perspective and compilation of a research agenda.
When commenting on articles, please be friendly, welcoming, respectful and abide by the AIS eLibrary Discussion Thread Code of Conduct posted here.