• Only 21% of companies in the Asia-Pacific region have a strategic approach to sustainability. The biggest challenge remains data integration.
• Modernizing technology is crucial. Companies in the Asia-Pacific region are placing emphasis on driving technological improvements to achieve their sustainability goals.
• The key is to involve the management level. A comprehensive approach involving managers from all departments is essential for sustainability success.

IBM’s “Sustainability Technology Guide for Executives” offers a comprehensive roadmap for companies in Asia Pacific to leverage technology for sustainability. Despite the growing importance of sustainable practices, only 21% of organizations in the region have a strategic approach, according to a new white paper from IBM and Ecosystm.

The report highlights that nearly half (48%) of organizations struggle to integrate automation and AI system data with enterprise data, which is critical for a real-time, AI-powered view of sustainability impacts. Hans Dekkers, General Manager of IBM Asia Pacific, notes: “Technology is critical to achieving sustainability, and IBM solutions and services help organizations across the region harness the power of data and AI to create positive, sustainable impact that also drives business value.“

IBM’s findings show that 53% of companies are moving to newer, more efficient infrastructure to reduce their carbon footprint. This modernization is an important step in aligning technology with sustainability efforts. However, Sash Mukherjee, VP Industry Insights at Ecosystm, emphasizes the need for a structured approach, explaining: “Companies that make technology-based sustainability decisions can transform sustainability from a cost into a value driver, ensuring long-term business success while leaving a positive environmental legacy.“

The white paper also points to a significant gap in executive engagement across the business. While 70% of CEOs in the region are driving the sustainability agenda, only 22% have a dedicated Chief Sustainability Officer. The report suggests that CIOs, CFOs and COOs need to work closely together to bridge the gap between IT and the business, and that everyone needs to align their departments’ goals with sustainability objectives.

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The guide proposes a three-step framework for sustainability: setting data-driven goals, building a robust data foundation, and embedding sustainable practices into workflows. This approach enables leaders to create a compelling sustainability narrative, effectively manage risks, and build stakeholder trust. As Mukherjee adds: “By following the three-layered, technology-focused sustainability framework and checklist in this guide, Asia Pacific leaders can create a compelling, data-driven sustainability narrative that inspires action, manages risk and builds stakeholder trust.“

By leveraging technology effectively, companies in Asia Pacific can turn sustainability challenges into opportunities, positioning themselves for long-term success and positive environmental impact.