How AI is transforming work and powering labor sustainability reporting

As AI reshapes the landscape of work, it also presents an opportunity to revolutionize sustainability reporting on how working conditions are reported and improved around the world. This technological revolution offers the potential not only to automate routine tasks, but also to provide deeper insight and greater transparency into workforce dynamics. In doing so, we can foster meaningful progress towards a sustainable workplace.

The growth of AI tools like ChatGPT shows that the development and use of AI is gaining momentum. Most notably, OpenAI recently developed technology that can mimic the human voice. The tool is closed to the public to prevent potential abuse, but it was successful in recreating the voice of a woman who lost her voice to a brain tumor, demonstrating that AI can have a positive impact It has been.

AI and the future of work

Numerous studies have investigated how AI will impact jobs around the world. A 2023 Goldman Sachs report states that AI could replace around 300 million full-time jobs and impact up to two-thirds of jobs in the US and Europe. . Additionally, a McKinsey Global Institute report estimates that by 2030, 12 million people will need to change their profession.

These studies suggest that there are growing concerns that AI will displace jobs and exacerbate social inequalities. These findings highlight the critical importance of ensuring fair employment opportunities, fair working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights in the age of AI.

When we consider these issues from a broader perspective, they become even more complex. A 2024 study conducted by the International Monetary Fund shows that exposure to AI is lower in emerging markets (40%) and low-income countries (26%) compared to developed countries (60%). Masu. This difference can increase global and national inequality. The study found that employees with access to AI may have a significant advantage over those without, and that younger workers are more likely to adapt to and take advantage of AI technology than older workers. It also became clear that it was potentially easier.

So how can companies reduce these potential inequalities? In a 2023 study on the impact of AI on the future of work, Massachusetts Institute of Technology professors Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson found that It suggests important strategies. The idea is that companies need to view labor not just as a cost, but as an important asset for increasing productivity. “Companies need to recognize that their workforce is indeed a critical resource for improving productivity,” they say.

It also suggests shifting the focus to supporting workers, rather than aiming to develop ultra-high-performance artificial intelligence or AI systems that surpass humans. We also advocate involving employees in the decision-making process regarding the use of technology, believing that workers have valuable insight into which aspects of their jobs can be effectively automated.

AI-powered labor for sustainability report

AI has the power to change the landscape of employment and job creation, while also reinforcing efforts to reduce workplace inequality.

To address inequality in the workplace, we must first recognize its existence by collecting data and monitoring labor issues. AI can help companies identify, understand, and reduce these inequalities, improving how companies report and manage labor issues and contributing to a more just and sustainable working environment.

Ensuring fair and safe working conditions is an important part of environmental, social and governance standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative. The standards address various aspects of labor and working conditions, including issues such as employment conditions, collective bargaining, occupational health and safety, anti-discrimination, child labor and forced labor.

The complexity and importance of these issues highlight the need for a comprehensive approach. How can AI help companies increase transparency in reporting on these important issues?

AI can significantly enhance sustainability reporting on labor and working conditions through a variety of means. Here are five ways AI can contribute.

1. AI can leverage technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing to analyze large datasets from a variety of sources, including reports, surveys, exit interviews, training records, and emails. AI can provide management capabilities by identifying patterns and potential problems that human analysts might miss. Includes critical insights into working conditions, turnover, diversity metrics, occupational health and safety concerns, and more to make informed decisions.
2. AI can provide labor risk assessments. For example, AI can identify child labor or forced labor risks in specific regions or industries by analyzing data from news reports, social media, and other sources. This foresight is valuable for companies looking to expand into new markets and industries.
3. AI can assist with regulatory compliance by pinpointing gaps in compliance with local laws and international labor standards. This feature is particularly useful for multinational companies that do business in two or more jurisdictions. This enables early detection of labor law violations and allows organizations to take preventive measures.
4. AI allows companies to closely monitor their supply chains. AI can analyze data from audits, certifications, and reports to pinpoint potential labor issues in both your own operations and those of your suppliers. This enables companies to take action and report on their supply chain due diligence, minimizing labor risks.
5. AI can generate content for sustainability reports, including text, photos, and infographics. You can also create simplified versions of your sustainability reports in different formats (text, presentations, infographics, podcasts, etc.) and share them with different audiences. Additionally, AI can also help develop interactive platforms that enhance stakeholder engagement, where stakeholders can share feedback on companies’ efforts to protect employees and manage labor risks.

In conclusion, it is clear that AI has the power to revolutionize jobs and working conditions. However, it also faces challenges such as unemployment and social inequality. Therefore, the approach to integrating this technology must be thoughtful and comprehensive. This requires paying attention to and recognizing inequalities when they occur. By leveraging AI to monitor and report on labor issues, companies can help create a future where workers are treated fairly and equitably.