The Concept of Sustainable Digitalisation as a Basis for a Green-digital Transition to a Climate-neutral Economy
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The article presents a conceptual framework for understanding sustainable digitalisation as a primary driver of the green-digital transition towards climate neutrality of the global economy. This article analyses the interaction between digital technologies and decarbonisation goals, focusing on the opportunities and risks that arise in the process of digital transformation. The author presents a summary of the barriers to the green-digital transition on the global path to zero emissions, including the digital divide, uneven access to technology and innovation, carbon intensity of ICT, unclear regulation and imbalance of international policies. The author proposes a three-stage model of harmonisation of digital and green transitions, which contributes to the achievement of climate neutrality of the global economy. The model comprises the following components: international consensus and synchronisation; sustainable digitalisation in bridging the gaps; systematic and targeted innovation. The author underscores the necessity of incorporating sustainable tenets into the digitalisation process, considering both the technical and social, economic and environmental facets. The author identifies the following principles of sustainable digitalisation: the reduction of ICT energy consumption and related carbon emissions; the optimisation of the material and technical base for the functioning of digital infrastructure; the reduction of e-waste through the introduction of circular practices; the integration of sustainable digital technologies into business models; the combating of disinformation; the protection of human rights and the ensuring of environmental justice. Furthermore, the article identifies the key innovations needed to achieve climate neutrality in the short and long term
Source: Economies Horizons
Author: Iryna Maksymova
Institution: West Ukrainian National University
Language: English
Topic: Green IT and Sustainability
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4403229017