ESG
Equal emphasis on E , S and G While ‘ E ’ is perhaps the most discussed letter in ESG , social issues are particularly important in technology . The digital divide affects nearly three billion people around the world , particularly impacting minority groups such as women , people living in rural areas and lower-income countries .
Subho says : “ We have a huge role in making sure people are connected and that underserved people in various geographies have the right access to broadband as well as digital skill building .
“ It ’ s extremely important that companies like us play a role in not just bringing the power of networks and connectivity to people , but also supporting a huge number of people who have connections but don ’ t have the right level of skills .”
Verizon , like most companies , uses AI to improve its operations , services and products . If not carefully governed , focussing on the ‘ G ’ in ESG , AI can result in unintended consequences like bias and discrimination . Verizon ’ s Responsible AI Programme is overseen by a dedicated team and governed by a risk-based approach to avoid potential harm . Its systems are trained to identify and reduce unfair bias and societal harm and it incorporates a privacy-by-design approach .
Kyndryl ’ s diverse Board of Directors helps to inform its business decisions in an inclusive and sustainable way , made up of 10 leaders from diverse backgrounds . This supports both the ‘ S ’ and ‘ G ’ of ESG . Nine of these senior
“SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS IS GOOD BUSINESS AND THAT ’ S HOW WE THINK ABOUT IT ”
JAMES GOWEN , CHIEF SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT , SUPPLY CHAIN AND SOURCING , VERIZON
leaders are independent , four are diverse in race or ethnicity and three have global citizenship outside of the US . By bringing together experienced leaders from different backgrounds , a wider range of experiences inform the company and can support a diverse customer base .
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