ICT's Role in the Net-Zero Strategy for World Economic Expansion

Switching to net-zero emissions is no longer unique but essential for all under increased pressures to the environment and changing economic paradigms. Since energy systems contribute most to these emissions, the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) is now considered crucial for pushing further both decarbonization initiatives and economic vibrancy. Despite ongoing debates on clean innovation and digital developments, little scholarly work has critically examined how ICT frameworks provide net-zero strategies to sustainable growth in distinct regions and industries. This research identifies the ways in which ICT enables the world’s net-zero objectives, whilst also enhancing productivity, innovation and sustainable development. Research shows that ICT enabled emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart grid, digital monitoring etc. enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, stimulate inclusive growth. The research shows how ICT driven transformations respond to directed technical change theories and highlights the policy package that facilitates such integration. To the contrary of traditional opinions, this work finds that ICT is the main enabler for decarbonization and resilient economic growth and cannot be just supported but is the very core infrastructure. The research provides practical directions for policymakers to develop comprehensive digital and climate plans while emphasizing the need to reduce digital divides to support fair participation of achieving net-zero goals. The future studies should examine empirical models of the impacts instantiated by ICT on long-term economic and environmental consequences focusing on the needs of underrepresented and underdeveloped countries.