In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, a new study published in *Sustainable Futures* sheds light on how Digital Environmental, Social, and Governance (DESG) frameworks are becoming a linchpin for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Led by Sushil Kumar, an Assistant Professor at the National Institute of Technology Jamshedpur, the research employs a dual-method approach—combining bibliometric analysis and systematic review—to map the trajectory of DESG research and its potential to drive equitable sustainability outcomes.
The study analyzed 589 peer-reviewed publications from 2018 to 2025, uncovering a 25.85% annual surge in post-2020 research, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT). China emerged as a frontrunner in empirical contributions, with 47 publications and 506 citations, while thematic clusters highlighted digital governance, ESG transparency, and circular economies. However, the research also revealed critical gaps, including the underrepresentation of Africa and South Asia, fragmented global collaborations, and a lack of empirical validation in sectors like healthcare (SDG 3) and agriculture (SDG 2).
For the agriculture sector, the implications are profound. The study suggests that DESG frameworks could revolutionize how farmers and agribusinesses approach sustainability. “Digital transformation in agriculture isn’t just about adopting new technologies; it’s about creating resilient systems that align with global sustainability goals,” Kumar noted. By leveraging AI for precision farming, blockchain for supply chain transparency, and IoT for resource management, the agriculture sector could achieve significant strides in reducing environmental impact while enhancing productivity.
Yet, the research also underscores the need for context-specific applications. “Scalable models in low-resource settings are crucial,” Kumar emphasized. “We need to ensure that digital solutions are accessible and adaptable to diverse agricultural landscapes, particularly in regions where infrastructure and digital literacy may be limited.”
The study’s findings point to a future where DESG frameworks could bridge the gap between technological innovation and equitable sustainability. For the agriculture sector, this means not only improving efficiency and profitability but also contributing to broader environmental and social goals. As the world grapples with climate change, food security, and resource scarcity, the role of digital transformation in shaping a resilient future cannot be overstated.
While the research highlights China’s tech-driven sustainability models and Switzerland’s ethical policy frameworks, it also calls for greater inclusivity in global collaborations. By addressing disparities in digital infrastructure and knowledge dissemination, the agriculture sector—and indeed, all sectors—can harness the full potential of DESG to achieve the SDGs.
As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, this study serves as a timely reminder that digital transformation is not just a technological endeavor but a collective effort toward equitable and resilient sustainability.