This systematic literature review explores the role of digital intelligence in fostering sustainable business performance via ESG integration. While artificial intelligence, business intelligence dashboards, big data analytics, automation, blockchain traceability and predictive modelling are increasingly discussed as sustainability enablers, the existing literature is lacking in understanding the dynamics through which digital capabilities translate into responsible performance outcomes. Building on the perspectives of dynamic capabilities, stakeholder theory, institutional theory and socio-technical systems, this review synthesises literature on digital transformation, ESG integration, corporate accountability and sustainable business performance. Five thematic areas are identified: sustainability sensing, strategic ESG translation, data-driven accountability, stakeholder-responsive value creation and responsible digital governance. The review contends that digital intelligence is not a panacea for better sustainability; its value is determined by digital insights being incorporated into governance, operations, management control, reporting, assurance and stakeholder engagement. An integrated Digital Intelligence-ESG Integration-Sustainable Business Performance framework is proposed, and research propositions are formulated. This review makes a contribution by considering ESG integration as the strategic route of translating digital intelligence into environmental stewardship, social legitimacy, governance transparency, resilience and sustainable value creation.
Dr. Kajal Rameshbhai Solanki (Wed,) studied this question.