Paper Number
ECIS2026-2234
Paper Type
SP
Abstract
AI has become a central subject of IS research due to its dual role as an enabler of and challenge for sustainable digital transformation. While technological progress in AI offers pathways to eco-logical efficiency, its rapidly growing energy footprint underscores the need for human-centered, skill-based approaches within IS research. This study advances the discourse on Green AI by ex-amining the skills required to design and implement energy-aware AI systems. Drawing on a three-round Delphi study with experts from AI engineering, sustainability management, and research, it conceptualizes sustainability-related skills as a foundation for responsible AI practice. The study extends Green IS theory by providing an empirically grounded understanding of the human skills that underpin sustainable AI development and offers guidance for embedding these skills into ed-ucation, training, and governance contexts. Keywords: Sustainable AI, Green AI Skills, Delphi Method.
Recommended Citation
Driller, Jana; Pfaff, Theresa; and Trang, Simon, "From Technical Expertise To Reflective Practice: Identifying Skills For Sustainable Ai Engineering" (2026). ECIS 2026 Proceedings. 14.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2026/is_resil/isresilience/14
From Technical Expertise To Reflective Practice: Identifying Skills For Sustainable Ai Engineering
AI has become a central subject of IS research due to its dual role as an enabler of and challenge for sustainable digital transformation. While technological progress in AI offers pathways to eco-logical efficiency, its rapidly growing energy footprint underscores the need for human-centered, skill-based approaches within IS research. This study advances the discourse on Green AI by ex-amining the skills required to design and implement energy-aware AI systems. Drawing on a three-round Delphi study with experts from AI engineering, sustainability management, and research, it conceptualizes sustainability-related skills as a foundation for responsible AI practice. The study extends Green IS theory by providing an empirically grounded understanding of the human skills that underpin sustainable AI development and offers guidance for embedding these skills into ed-ucation, training, and governance contexts. Keywords: Sustainable AI, Green AI Skills, Delphi Method.