Navigating AI integration in sustainability-oriented organisations: balancing technological innovation with environmental and social values

Purpose This paper aims to examine how sustainability-oriented companies manage the social disruption caused by artificial intelligence (AI) implementation while maintaining their environmental missions. Original insights are provided into the intersection of technological advancement, human factors and environmental management, focussing on organisational transformation challenges and strategies for balancing innovation with traditional environmental values. Design/methodology/approach A narrative literature review methodology was applied to synthesise and analyse the complex interactions between environmental management, AI implementation and organisational transformation. Multiple electronic databases were systematically searched using predetermined keywords related to green technologies, AI implementation and organisational change within sustainability-oriented organisations. The analytical process was structured to facilitate the integration of multiple theoretical perspectives and empirical findings. Findings Successful AI integration in sustainability-oriented organisations requires sophisticated approaches to knowledge management, leadership development and organisational design. Companies must design new models that combine technological capabilities with environmental expertise while addressing social impacts. Traditional environmental values can be preserved through thoughtful integration of AI systems. Research limitations/implications The study’s conceptual nature may limit immediate applicability across different organisational contexts and scales. The rapid pace of AI development means recent innovations may not be reflected in academic literature. The interdisciplinary nature required judgements about relevance that may have introduced selection bias. Empirical research is needed to validate proposed frameworks. Originality/value Novel insights are provided into specific challenges faced by sustainability-oriented organisations implementing AI, offering unique perspectives on managing the intersection of environmental values and technological innovation. Original frameworks are presented for understanding and addressing social dimensions of technological transformation in environmentally-focussed companies.