Tech-Driven Transformations in CSR: Unveiling Promising Solutions for Social and Environmental Impact

CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Mrs Jyoti Agarwal, Managing Trustee at Sterlite Tech Foundation

1. How has technology transformed the landscape of CSR initiatives in recent years, and what are the most promising tech-driven solutions you’ve witnessed for social and environmental transformation?

Like with any other industry, technology has found its way into CSR, revolutionizing how we address social and environmental challenges and empowering stakeholders to drive positive change. Thanks to technology, we are able to gather data on diverse metrics like energy consumption, water usage, and waste production, enabling us to identify areas for enhancing our environmental impact. As a tech-driven company with digital at the forefront of our business, we leverage technology to efficiently conduct and measure our social impact.

Some of the simple yet very notable and promising tech-driven solutions I have seen are:

• Digital platforms have emerged to facilitate the exchange, reuse, and recycling of products, supporting the transition to a circular economy model.
• AI-driven technologies are improving agricultural practices, optimizing water usage, predicting crop yields, and reducing the use of harmful chemicals, promoting sustainable agriculture.
• Numerous mobile applications offer tips, incentives, and information to encourage people to adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives.
• Social media platforms have become instrumental in raising awareness about various causes, mobilizing support, and connecting like-minded individuals and organizations.
• Online education and e-learning platforms have expanded access to education and skill development, empowering individuals, and communities to improve their livelihoods.

2. In your opinion, what are the key challenges and risks associated with adopting technology for CSR, and how can businesses mitigate them effectively?

One of the key risks that I see in adopting technology is Greenwashing, where companies exaggerate their environmental impact to appear more sustainable than they are. To avoid this, businesses must ensure transparency in their CSR reporting and be accountable for their actions. Third-party audits and certifications can help verify the legitimacy of CSR claims.

Then there is the issue of technological obsolescence. It evolves rapidly, and solutions that are innovative today may become outdated in a short time. We must focus on adopting scalable and adaptable technologies to avoid the risk of investments becoming obsolete and to ensure the longevity of our CSR initiatives.

Last but not least, while technology can help improve environmental sustainability, its own production and usage contribute to electronic waste and energy consumption. Businesses should consider adopting green IT practices, supporting recycling programs, and sourcing technology responsibly.

3. How do you ensure that your CSR strategies and tech-based solutions remain relevant and effective in the face of ever-changing technological advancements?

This requires a proactive and adaptive approach. First and foremost, involving stakeholders, including employees, customers, community members, and NGOs, in the planning and evaluation process is key as their insights and feedback can help identify areas where technology could make a meaningful impact.

I am a firm believer in pilot projects and test beds. Before implementing new tech-based solutions on a large scale, it is imperative for us to conduct test beds to assess their feasibility and effectiveness. These small-scale trials allow for adjustments and refinements before full deployment.

And most importantly, utilize data analytics to inform decision-making. Data can reveal patterns, identify areas of improvement, and help in prioritizing efforts where technology can have the most significant impact.

4. How do you measure the effectiveness and success of technology-based CSR projects, and what metrics do you use to assess their impact?

What we do here at STL as the starting point is determine if the technology-based CSR project can be scaled up or replicated in other locations or by other organizations. Projects with a high potential for scalability have a broader and lasting impact. Once that is done, we implement the project and regularly measure and track environmental outcomes, such as greenhouse gas emissions reduction, water and energy savings, waste diversion rates, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices. At the end of the day, our primary goal is real social impact, and we strive to keep things simple yet meaningful in our approach.

5. What advice would you give to other companies seeking to incorporate technology into their CSR initiatives to drive social and environmental transformation?

I truly believe that when we are designing initiatives, we should do so with scalability and long-term sustainability in mind. Solutions that can be replicated or expanded in other areas or over time will have a more significant and lasting impact. Don’t be afraid to innovate and iterate. Technology is constantly evolving, and new approaches may emerge over time. Continuously monitor the results of your initiatives and adapt as necessary to improve their effectiveness.  And most importantly, encourage and support employee engagement in CSR initiatives, particularly those involving technology. Employees can bring fresh ideas, expertise, and passion to the projects, increasing their impact and fostering a positive corporate culture.