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VOL. 13, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Harnessing the storm: Leveraging digital disruption for equitable and sustainable progress
Authors
Godwin Rebello, Pragathi Malagonda, Druva Kumar K S, Jeseentha Mathew, Anusha
Abstract
A storm of digital
disruption, powered by technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain,
and the Internet of Things, is reshaping our world. This force, however, is
directionless; it can either deepen societal divides and accelerate
environmental degradation or be harnessed to foster a more equitable and
sustainable future. This paper argues for the latter. It posits that achieving
equitable and sustainable progress requires moving beyond a reactive stance to
a proactive strategy of intentional design and deployment of digital
innovations. Using a qualitative conceptual synthesis, this paper first
explores the pathways through which digital disruption can be explicitly
leveraged to advance social equity, from financial inclusion to accessible
education. It then examines its potential to drive environmental
sustainability, enabling circular economies and resilient green infrastructure.
The inherent perils of unchecked disruption—such as algorithmic bias and the
digital divide—are critically analyzed as consequences of a lack of strategic
direction. To guide this process, the paper introduces the "Harnessing
Disruption Matrix," a framework for evaluating technological initiatives
based on their disruptive power and their socio-environmental intentionality.
The paper concludes that by embedding equity and sustainability as core design
principles, we can steer the storm of digital disruption towards a horizon of
shared, resilient prosperity.
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Pages:320-326
How to cite this article:
Godwin Rebello, Pragathi Malagonda, Druva Kumar K S, Jeseentha Mathew, Anusha "Harnessing the storm: Leveraging digital disruption for equitable and sustainable progress ". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 13, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 320-326
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