Lecture 2: Sustainability and ESG – finding hope in intelligent monitoring

Lecture 2: Sustainability and ESG – finding hope in intelligent monitoring

10 April

Speaker: Professor Pavel Castka

Pavel Castka is a Professor in the Department of Intelligent Operations and Marketing, and is currently serving as the Associate Dean for Professional Engagement for International Business School Suzhou at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University. He previously served as Associate Dean for Research and MBA Director at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. His research focuses on the theme of sustainability and supply chain management – in particular, in relation to the assurance and verification of social and environmental claims and practices through innovation and technology enhanced monitoring. Pavel has published in leading academic journals are received large research grants from several funding agencies in Australia, New Zealand and Germany, advancing research and the application of innovative approaches in terms of digitalization, food systems innovations and remote practices. He serves as an expert at TC176 Quality Management at the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) – having served in the past as nominated expert for the development of ISO 26000 standard for social responsibility. His work has been widely used in international standardization policies. He has been repeatedly invited by leading policy making institutions such as ISO, UNIDO, IUCN or IAF to discuss topics related to conformity assessment and monitoring practices.

Topic: Sustainability and ESG – finding hope in intelligent monitoring

Abstract: Sustainability and ESG have emerged as prominent topics in political, business, and intellectual discourse. However, despite global initiatives like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, achieving sustainable development remains elusive. There is a lack of global consensus on how to accomplish it, and the SDGs are unlikely to be fully realized. Businesses often prioritize economic prosperity over sustainability, and ESG reporting frequently yields more symbolic than substantial outcomes. Consumers must navigate through conflicting and often complex narratives, making it challenging to make informed purchasing choices. Can this situation be improved?

One promising solution lies in the concept of “intelligent monitoring.” Intelligent monitoring refers to the use of big data and AI-driven approaches to provide veracity and timeliness of insights, enabling more informed decision-making at personal, organizational, industry, and societal levels. Drawing from his scholarly work and professional experience with leading global institutions such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Prof Castka will discuss how sustainability initiatives worldwide are impacted by AI and technological developments.

This seminar is designed for anyone curious about sustainability. Whether you are interested in global sustainability policies, serve as a sustainability leader responsible for ESG initiatives, or are an enthusiastic consumer, you are invited to explore the fascinating world of sustainability and technological solutions with Prof Castka.