Think Digital Sustainability for Government - ​MIND OVER MACHINE: THE BEHAVIOURAL ECONOMICS OF GOING GREEN IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Think Digital Sustainability for Government - ​MIND OVER MACHINE: THE BEHAVIOURAL ECONOMICS OF GOING GREEN IN THE DIGITAL AGE




Behavioural economics plays a crucial role in shaping organisational perceptions of digital sustainability by highlighting the psychological factors that influence decision-making processes. Many organisations struggle to prioritise sustainability due to several biases:

Short-term thinking: This often leads to prioritising immediate gains over long-term benefits, ultimately compromising environmental impact.

Optimism bias: Organisations may underestimate the risks and potential environmental consequences associated with digital technologies.
Groupthink and social norms: The tendency to conform to popular trends can overshadow the appropriateness of suggested solutions for the specific organisation.
Career perception: Digital sustainability may not be seen as a career-enhancing focus compared to more fashionable fields like AI, causing professionals to overlook its significance in future-proofing their careers. This undervaluation can create a skills gap as organisations seek leaders who can effectively integrate sustainable practices into digital transformation efforts.
Perceived bureaucracy and cost: Sustainability initiatives are often viewed as adding unnecessary layers and expenses, fostering negative perceptions of their value.

Recognising, understanding, and addressing these biases is essential for effectively integrating digital sustainability into day-to-day decision making and practices.