Actor-Networks In Corporate Digital Sustainability Initiatives

Stanlein, David; Püchel, Lea; Juntunen, Enni Alina; Brandt, Tobias

Abstract

Actor-Networks In Corporate Digital Sustainability Initiatives Presenter Information David Stanlein, University of MünsterFollow Lea Püchel, University of MünsterFollow Enni Alina Juntunen, University of MünsterFollow Tobias Brandt, University of MünsterFollow Paper Number ECIS2026-1254 Paper Type CRP Abstract The convergence of digitalization and sustainability creates complex socio-technical challenges that require alignment across diverse actors. This study investigates how actors shape corporate digital sustainability initiatives using Actor-Network Theory. It provides a theoretical understanding of actors and practical guidance to stabilize the network. Drawing on a case study in a German insurance company, we link our data to the four moments of translation. During problematization, the sustainability management set up a digital sustainability working group to define a strategic framework. During interessement, both departments collaborated in recruiting key actors. During enrolment, IT/IS management’s limited engagement created dependencies that constrained the group’s autonomy. During mobilization, sustainability management secured senior support and advanced knowledge sharing, whereas IT/IS management destabilized the actor-network by imposing resource and structural limitations. Results can assist organizations in visualizing and evaluating the network’s effectiveness in addressing digital sustainability, potentially enhancing the stability and success of these initiatives.