Research on Digitalization Impacts and Reporting Needs

This research paper addresses the sustainability impacts of digitalization, focusing on data protection, cybersecurity, and data privacy. It identifies emerging reporting challenges and needs related to these impacts, highlighting gaps in the current GRI Standards. The paper outlines significant environmental, economic, and human rights impacts associated with digital technologies, which are being adopted at unprecedented rates. It assesses existing GRI Standards against these impacts and presents actionable recommendations based on internationally recognized frameworks. The environmental impacts stem from the infrastructure supporting digitalization, while economic impacts relate to productivity and labor dynamics. Human rights implications arise from data collection and AI interactions, raising concerns about privacy and discrimination. The findings indicate that while digitalization has the potential to support sustainable development, it also intensifies resource consumption and environmental challenges. The paper calls for enhanced reporting guidance to address the unique impacts of digitalization and align reporting expectations with global standards.