Understanding AI to Shape a sustainable future

1. AI & Companies

You’re the Head of the “AI for Sustainability” Institute at ESSCA School of Management, where the future is shaped today.

From where you stand, how is artificial intelligence changing the way companies work?

AI is fundamentally changing how companies operate by turning overwhelming data into a strategic advantage. We are seeing three major transformations:

1. It helps them predict problems before they happen – like spotting equipment issues early, rerouting supply chains, or tracking carbon emissions in real time.
2. It saves time on everyday tasks. In one test with 14,500 government workers, people saved an average of 26 minutes a day by letting AI handle things like drafting emails or writing meeting notes.
3. The main challenge isn’t the AI itself – it’s getting data organized, updating old systems, and teaching teams how to use these tools effectively.

Could you, please, share an example or two of how businesses are using AI not just to work faster, but to work smarter, more sustainably, or even more humanely?

Certainly. Two great cases show how AI supports smarter, more sustainable work.

First, Google uses DeepMind AI to manage data center cooling, reducing energy use by 40% and cutting CO₂ emissions, while freeing engineers to focus on bigger projects.

Second, Apple uses AI to track suppliers’ energy use in real time, helping over 250 suppliers in 28 countries commit to 100% clean energy.

These examples show how technology, when used wisely, can be a real force for positive change.

2. AI & careers

We’re in a time when job titles are evolving, roles are being redefined, and career paths look more like winding roads than straight lines. Whether someone is just starting out, thinking about a career pivot, or trying to stay relevant in their current role –

What do you see as the biggest shifts in the kinds of skills and mindsets we need today?

The biggest shift is that careers aren’t straight lines anymore – they’re flexible and shaped by fast-moving tech. To keep up, we need to stay curious, keep learning, and adapt to change. As AI takes over routine tasks, human skills like creativity, empathy, and resilience matter more than ever. It’s less about having a perfect plan, and more about growing with the journey.

How can we prepare ourselves not just to keep up with AI, but to grow with it – maybe even shape where it’s going?

Preparing for AI isn’t just about keeping up – it’s about shaping its future. To do that, start by getting hands-on with AI: learn how to work alongside it, decide what tasks to let AI handle, and which ones need a human touch. Focus on skills only humans bring, like creativity, problem-solving, and making tough decisions. It’s also important to think about ethics – understanding fairness, transparency, and responsibility helps guide AI in the right direction.

Finally, get involved with others in the AI community by joining teams, sharing ideas, and joining conversations. The people who engage now are the ones who will shape what’s next.

3. A Word to the next generation

Imagine a newly graduated student, excited but unsure, stepping into a job market shaped by AI.

What attitudes, skills, or values will help them not just fit in, but truly make an impact?

As a new graduate, remember AI is no longer science fiction – it’s your reality. Don’t fear it; see AI as a partner that enhances your creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. Stay curious, embrace lifelong learning, and know your career won’t be a straight line.

You’ll need the right mindset to adapt and grow, solid skills like AI literacy and critical thinking to work effectively alongside technology, and strong values like ethics and integrity to guide how you use these tools.

Those who combine technical know-how with human wisdom and compassion won’t just fit in – they’ll shape a better future where AI serves us all.