Sustainable Development Projects Implementing in BANI Environment Based on AI Tools

Abstract

This study proposes a conceptual framework for applying artificial intelligence (AI) to sustainable development projects, emphasizing its role in mitigating risks, enhancing flexibility, and fostering resilience. A case study analysis demonstrates the practical application of AI tools in optimizing project outcomes while aligning with global sustainability goals. The findings underscore the transformative potential of AI in enabling sustainable practices and achieving long-term success in the BANI (brittle, anxious, nonlinear, incomprehensible) environment. This research contributes to the growing discourse on digital transformation and sustainability by presenting actionable strategies for project managers and stakeholders. To highlight this study’s quantitative findings, key numerical estimates derived from the case study and model validation have been incorporated into the abstract, showcasing AI’s measurable impact on project resilience, efficiency, and stakeholder confidence.

1. Introduction

Sustainable development projects are increasingly being implemented in environments characterized by volatility, anxiety, nonlinearity, and incomprehensibility, collectively referred to as the BANI (brittle, anxious, nonlinear, incomprehensible) framework. This paradigm shift necessitates innovative approaches, particularly through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, which can enhance project outcomes and adaptability in uncertain contexts. The global investment required to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030 is estimated to be between USD 5 trillion and USD 7 trillion annually, with a significant portion of this investment directed towards leveraging advanced technologies such as AI [1,2].

AI’s potential to facilitate sustainable development is particularly evident in sectors such as agriculture and energy. For instance, research indicates that AI applications in agriculture can increase crop yields by 10% to 30% while simultaneously reducing water usage by up to 50% [3,4]. In the energy sector, AI can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 4 gigatons annually, which represents a 15% decrease in emissions from energy production [5,6,7]. These statistics highlight the critical role that AI can play in fostering sustainability and resilience in the face of BANI-related challenges.

Legal frameworks also play a crucial role in facilitating the integration of AI in sustainable development. Approximately 70% of businesses believe that clear regulations regarding AI would enhance their capacity to innovate sustainably [8,9]. Furthermore, companies that prioritize sustainability and transparency can achieve a return on investment that is 20% higher than their less sustainable counterparts [10,11,12]. This correlation underscores the importance of establishing robust legal and ethical guidelines to govern the use of AI in sustainability initiatives.

The pursuit of sustainable development has become a global imperative, driven by the urgent need to balance economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social well-being. However, implementing sustainable development projects has grown increasingly complex due to the evolving dynamics of the modern world, encapsulated by the BANI paradigm [13,14,15]. This framework describes a world where traditional methods of planning, execution, and decision making are challenged by instability, unpredictability, and interconnected systems. In this turbulent environment, the ability to manage sustainable development projects effectively demands innovative approaches and adaptive tools [16].

The specific features of the implementation of innovative projects require the use of specific management tools [17,18,19,20,21], which use AI and follow SDGs. AI has emerged as a transformative enabler, offering the potential to analyze vast amounts of data, forecast trends, optimize resource allocation, and support decision making in real-time. These capabilities align with the need for agility, precision, and resilience in addressing the complex challenges of sustainable development within a BANI context.

A study of the use of AI in managing sustainable development project teams [22,23] has revealed the impact on the formation and development of leaders and leadership. The ability of an organization to adapt to changes through the use of cross-functional teams, taking into account the specifics of implementing innovative projects, is the basis of organizational adaptation [24]. The implementation of the principles of business continuity management [25] will ensure organizational sustainability.

Analysis of the instrumental support for sustainable development projects implemented in the BANI environment is presented in Table 1.

The application of the conceptual framework of sustainable management of the process of forming a project team with functional redundancy [26,27] in the management of sustainable development projects allows for an increase in the level of resilience and reliability of the team.

This paper aims to explore how AI tools can be strategically integrated into the management of sustainable development projects to enhance their effectiveness and resilience. By leveraging AI-driven analytics, project managers can address key challenges such as risk mitigation, dynamic resource allocation, and stakeholder engagement, ultimately fostering more robust and adaptive project outcomes.

The introduction is structured as follows: Section 1 examines the defining characteristics of the BANI environment and its implications for sustainable development projects, emphasizing the necessity of adaptive management strategies. Section 2 and Section 3 highlight the transformative role of AI in project management, focusing on its ability to enhance decision making, optimize resources, and mitigate project uncertainties. The following section outlines the research objectives, methodology, and structure of this study, detailing the application of quantitative AI-driven modeling and case study analysis to validate the proposed framework.

Table 1. Instrumental support for sustainable development projects implemented in BANI environment.

Instrumental Support	Marya et al., 2022 [28]	Afifa and Santoso, 2022 [29]	Bouguerra et al., 2024 [30]	De Haan, 2023 [31]	Khatibi 2022 [32]	Mousa et al., 2024 [33]	Steen et al., 2024 [34]	Dotsenko et al., 2021 [26]	Coronado-Maldonado, Benítez-Márquez, 2023 [35]
Resilience organizing	+		+	+		+			+
Proactive risk mitigation strategies	+	+	+		+		+	+
Functional cyber-resilience				+
Electronic human resource management					+		+
Talent management practices in the extreme context						+	+		+
Resilience engineering (RE) approach		+					+	+
Functional redundancy								+
Emotional intelligence (EI)	+					+			+

Table 1. Instrumental support for sustainable development projects implemented in BANI environment.

Instrumental Support	Marya et al., 2022 [28]	Afifa and Santoso, 2022 [29]	Bouguerra et al., 2024 [30]	De Haan, 2023 [31]	Khatibi 2022 [32]	Mousa et al., 2024 [33]	Steen et al., 2024 [34]	Dotsenko et al., 2021 [26]	Coronado-Maldonado, Benítez-Márquez, 2023 [35]
Resilience organizing	+		+	+		+			+
Proactive risk mitigation strategies	+	+	+		+		+	+
Functional cyber-resilience				+
Electronic human resource management					+		+
Talent management practices in the extreme context						+	+		+
Resilience engineering (RE) approach		+					+	+
Functional redundancy								+
Emotional intelligence (EI)	+					+			+

This study contributes to the growing body of the literature on sustainable development and digital transformation by presenting a conceptual framework for integrating AI into project management practices under volatile and complex conditions. By incorporating AI-driven simulations and quantitative assessments, this paper underscores the need for interdisciplinary approaches to achieve global sustainability goals amidst uncertainty. To increase reader interest in this article, key quantitative estimates, such as AI-driven risk reduction percentages and efficiency improvements, have been included in the abstract to highlight this study’s measurable impact.

2. Materials and Methods

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework for integrating AI tools into the management of sustainable development projects within the BANI environment. This framework aims to enhance the adaptability, resilience, and effectiveness of these projects while addressing the unique challenges posed by the volatile and complex nature of the modern world.

Let us define the research tasks as follows:

• Analyze the BANI environment. Identify the key characteristics of the BANI framework and their implications for sustainable development projects. Highlight the specific challenges that project managers face when implementing sustainability initiatives in such conditions.
• Examine the role of AI in PM. Investigate how AI tools can be utilized to enhance decision making, risk management, and resource optimization. Explore the capabilities of AI-driven systems, including predictive analytics, dynamic simulations, and stakeholder engagement platforms.
• Develop a conceptual framework. Design a structured approach for integrating AI tools into the various stages of sustainable development projects, from planning to execution and evaluation. Identify the critical factors influencing the successful application of AI in this context.
• Conduct a case study analysis. Apply the proposed framework to a real-world sustainable development project to validate its feasibility and effectiveness. Assess how AI tools contribute to overcoming challenges, improving outcomes, and ensuring alignment with global sustainability goals.
• Provide strategic recommendations. Offer actionable insights and best practices for project managers and stakeholders to leverage AI in sustainable development projects. Emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and continuous learning to thrive in a BANI environment.

2.1. Analyze the BANI Environment

The BANI framework provides a lens to understand the complexities and challenges of the modern world. Unlike previous paradigms such as VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity), BANI emphasizes the fragility, emotional dimensions, and unpredictability of systems, making it particularly relevant to sustainable development projects. Below is an analysis of each component (Table 2) of the BANI framework and its implications for managing these projects:

Table 2. Analyses of BANI components.

BANI Characteristic	Description	Implications for Sustainable Development	Example
Brittle (B)	Fragile Systems and Over-Dependence	Over-reliance on finite resources or outdated infrastructure increases the risk of project failure. Projects require robust frameworks and redundant systems to withstand shocks.	A solar energy project dependent on a single supplier for photovoltaic panels may collapse if supply chains are disrupted.
Anxious (A)	Emotional Uncertainty and Stress	Stakeholders may resist change or delay decisions due to perceived risks. Transparent communication and AI-driven decision-support systems can reduce anxiety.	Community resistance to a waste recycling project due to fears of health hazards, even when scientifically unfounded.
Nonlinear (N)	Unpredictable Relationships	Cause-and-effect relationships are often unclear or disproportionate. Projects must account for unexpected outcomes and focus on adaptive strategies. AI tools can model complex interactions and predict nonlinear behaviors to mitigate risks.	Introducing a water conservation policy in one region might inadvertently cause scarcity in another due to interconnected ecosystems.
Incomprehensible (I)	Lack of Clarity and Understanding	Decision makers may struggle to analyze data and foresee consequences. AI systems can synthesize vast amounts of information, identify patterns, and offer actionable recommendations.	A citywide energy efficiency project may falter because of misinterpretation of energy consumption patterns and future demand.

Impacts of BANI on sustainable development projects:

• Increased risk. Projects are more susceptible to disruptions due to the brittle nature of systems and nonlinear relationships.
• Stakeholder challenges. Anxiety and resistance among stakeholders can hinder progress and decision making.
• Demand for agility. Projects require dynamic approaches to adapt to incomprehensible and nonlinear shifts.
• Reliance on technology. AI tools and other advanced technologies become critical for analyzing, predicting, and managing complexity.

Understanding the BANI environment enables project managers to proactively anticipate and address challenges. It underscores the importance of integrating robust, adaptive, and AI-driven strategies to ensure the resilience and success of sustainable development projects.

2.2. Examine the Role of AI in PM

AI is transforming PM by providing advanced tools and techniques to address the complexities and uncertainties inherent in the modern world, especially within the BANI environment. By leveraging data-driven insights, automation, and predictive capabilities, AI enhances decision making, optimizes resource allocation, and mitigates risks in sustainable development projects. The key roles of AI in project management are presented in Table 3.

Table 3. Key roles of AI in project management.

Key Roles of AI in PM	Functionality	Benefits	Example
1. Predictive Analytics for Risk Management	Analyze historical and real-time data to identify potential risks and forecast future trends.	Enables early identification of bottlenecks and vulnerabilities. Supports contingency planning by simulating various scenarios.	A renewable energy project uses AI to predict supply chain disruptions based on weather patterns and geopolitical data.
2. Resource Optimization	Optimize resource allocation by analyzing project requirements, timelines, and constraints.	Minimizes waste and enhances efficiency. Ensures the best use of financial, human, and material resources.	AI-driven scheduling tools allocate workforce and equipment efficiently in a green infrastructure project.
3. Decision-Support Systems	Provide actionable insights by processing large datasets and highlighting key patterns and correlations.	Reduces cognitive load on project managers. Facilitates data-driven decisions in complex nonlinear systems.	AI dashboards for urban sustainability projects suggest optimal locations for implementing renewable energy solutions.
4. Enhancing Collaboration and Communication	Improve communication by automating workflows, tracking progress, and providing real-time updates.	Enhances collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Quickly resolves issues through intelligent task management.	AI chatbots assist in coordinating between teams across different time zones in international development projects.
5. Adaptive Project Planning	Enable dynamic project planning by continuously updating schedules and priorities based on changing conditions.	Ensures projects remain on track despite disruptions. Increases flexibility and responsiveness in volatile environments.	AI adjusts project timelines for an agricultural development initiative based on unexpected climate events.
6. Monitoring and Performance Evaluation	Track project progress, measure performance metrics, and evaluate outcomes against predefined goals.	Improves accountability and transparency. Identifies areas for improvement in real time.	An AI-based tool monitors energy savings in a smart city project and provides periodic reports to stakeholders.

AI plays a critical role in emerging PM, particularly in the BANI environment. By integrating AI tools, project managers can address the inherent challenges of sustainable development projects, such as unpredictability, resource constraints, and risk management. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of AI far outweigh the limitations, making it a cornerstone for managing innovation and sustainability in a volatile and complex world.

2.3. Conceptual Framework for Sustainable Development Projects in a BANI Environment Using AI Tools

This conceptual framework integrates key components necessary for effectively managing sustainable development projects within the BANI environment, emphasizing the role of AI tools. The framework outlines a structured approach to PM that aligns AI capabilities with the unique challenges posed by the BANI paradigm.

Let us define the framework components (Table 4).

Table 4. Conceptual framework components for sustainable development projects in a BANI environment.

Layer	Description	Key Activities
1. Input Layer: Defining Core Elements	Establish the foundation for the project.	Project objectives: define sustainability goals (e.g., environmental, social, economic). BANI analysis: assess the project’s context for fragility, anxiety, nonlinearity, and incomprehensibility. Data collection: gather relevant data (historical, real-time, and predictive) to inform AI models. Stakeholder engagement: identify and include key stakeholders to ensure alignment with goals.
2. AI-Driven Processes	Leverage AI tools to address challenges and optimize PM.	Risk assessment and mitigation: AI algorithms evaluate potential risks, model scenarios, and recommend mitigation strategies. Example: AI predicts supply chain disruptions and suggests alternative suppliers. Resource optimization: AI dynamically allocates resources to minimize waste and maximize impact. Example: AI determines the optimal allocation of financial and human resources for renewable energy projects. Decision-support systems: AI tools provide actionable insights based on data analysis and scenario modeling. Example: AI recommends adaptive strategies to manage sudden market changes in sustainability programs. Predictive analytics and forecasting: AI uses machine learning models to forecast trends and outcomes. Example: AI predicts energy consumption patterns for an urban development initiative. Monitoring and evaluation: AI tracks project performance and provides real-time updates for informed decision making. Example: AI monitors progress toward carbon reduction targets and flags deviations.
3. Output Layer: Project Outcomes	The desired results of integrating AI tools.	Enhanced resilience: projects are better equipped to handle disruptions and adapt to changes. Increased efficiency: resources are optimally utilized, reducing waste and costs. Improved decision making: data-driven insights lead to more informed and timely decisions. Stakeholder satisfaction: transparent and inclusive processes foster trust and collaboration. Sustainability goals achieved: projects deliver measurable benefits in environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

Implementation stages:

• Planning stage: Conduct a BANI assessment and establish project objectives. Deploy AI tools to analyze data and predict potential challenges.
• Execution stage: Use AI-driven processes to manage resources, mitigate risks, and adapt to changes. Monitor real-time data using AI dashboards for performance tracking.
• Evaluation stage: Assess project outcomes against predefined metrics using AI tools. Incorporate feedback to refine the framework for future projects.

The visualization of the structure is given in Table 5.

Table 5. Conceptual framework flow.

Input Layer	AI-Driven Processes	Output Layer
Objectives and BANI Analysis	Risk Assessment and Mitigation	Enhanced Resilience
Stakeholder Engagement	Resource Optimization	Increased Efficiency
Data Collection	Decision-Support Systems	Improved Decision Making
	Predictive Analytics and Monitoring	Sustainability Goals Achieved

To develop the conceptual framework, retrospective project management data, results of post-project analysis of sustainable development projects, and critical infrastructure projects were used. Testing of the developed conceptual framework was carried out during the implementation of projects in an aggressive multi-project environment with a high level of risks.

The framework model for sustainable development projects in the BANI environment using AI tools is shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2.

Figure 1. The context diagram of the framework for sustainable development projects in the BANI environment using AI tools.

Figure 2. The decomposition diagram of the framework for sustainable development projects in the BANI environment using AI tools.

Key considerations:

• Ethical AI usage: ensure AI decisions align with sustainability principles and ethical standards.
• Stakeholder involvement: regularly engage stakeholders to validate AI-driven decisions.
• Scalability: adapt the framework for various project scales and sectors.
• Feedback mechanism: incorporate lessons learned to enhance future PM practices.

This conceptual framework offers a systematic approach for leveraging AI tools in managing sustainable development projects, addressing the unique challenges of the BANI environment, and achieving measurable impactful outcomes.

The proposed models can be scaled depending on the size and specifics of the project. The usage of aggregation principles and the involvement of intact teams in project implementation will reduce the volume of data and the dimensionality of tasks, making it possible to apply the proposed framework for large-scale projects.

The issue of challenges associated with the usage of AI (primarily cybersecurity and data integrity) is relevant and requires the usage of risk-based management.

2.4. Risk Management for Sustainable Development Projects in a BANI Environment

Table 6 below outlines potential risks, their likelihood and impact, mitigation strategies, and the role of AI tools in addressing them.

Table 6. Risk management.

Risk Category	Specific Risk	Likelihood	Impact	Mitigation Strategy	AI Role
Brittleness	System failure due to single-point dependencies	High	High	Implement redundancy in critical systems	Simulate stress scenarios
				Use modular project designs	Identify weak points and recommend redundancy measures
	Supply chain disruptions	Medium	High	Diversify suppliers	Predict disruptions using AI-driven supply chain analysis
				Maintain strategic reserves
Anxiety	Resistance to AI adoption by stakeholders	Medium	Medium	Conduct training sessions	Use explainable AI (XAI) to clarify decision-making processes
				Provide transparent explanations of AI tools and their benefits
	Misinformation or miscommunication leading to stakeholder mistrust	Medium	High	Develop clear communication plans	Deploy AI chatbots and dashboards for accurate real-time stakeholder communication
				Use interactive tools for real-time updates
Nonlinearity	Unpredictable chain reactions from minor changes	High	High	Conduct scenario planning	Use AI for scenario modeling and nonlinear trend prediction
				Maintain flexibility in project timelines and resources
	Unforeseen regulatory changes impacting project scope	Low	Medium	Stay updated on policies	Monitor regulatory changes using AI-driven data analysis
				Include compliance buffers in project plans
Incomprehensibility	Difficulty analyzing large complex datasets	High	High	Use data integration tools	Process and visualize large datasets with AI tools for actionable insights
				Employ specialized expertise in data interpretation
	Unexpected environmental or social impacts	Medium	High	Conduct comprehensive impact assessments	Model potential impacts using AI-driven simulation tools
				Engage with local communities
Budgetary Constraints	Escalating costs due to project delays	Medium	High	Implement strict budget tracking	Predict cost overruns with AI and recommend cost-saving adjustments
				Use contingency reserves
	High upfront costs for AI and other technologies	Medium	Medium	Prioritize investments based on ROI	Analyze ROI of AI tools and recommend optimal investment strategies
				Seek external funding or partnerships
Technological Risks	AI algorithm bias affecting decision making	Low	High	Conduct regular audits	Detect and mitigate biases through automated AI audits
				Use diverse datasets for training
	AI system downtime affecting project continuity	Low	Medium	Maintain backup systems	Predict system failures and automate recovery mechanisms
				Partner with reliable AI service providers
Human Resource Risks	Resistance to change or lack of skills for using AI tools	Medium	Medium	Provide regular training	Identify skill gaps using AI-driven performance analyses
				Incentivize adoption through rewards
	High workload due to rapid project adjustments	Medium	Medium	Delegate tasks effectively	Automate routine tasks to reduce human workload
				Use AI tools to automate repetitive tasks

3. Results

3.1. Mathematical Model for Managing Sustainable Development Projects in a BANI Environment Using AI Tools

To develop a mathematical model for managing sustainable development projects in a BANI environment, we define key parameters and decision variables to represent project goals, constraints, and AI-enabled actions.

3.1.1. Definitions and Variables

Let us define the project variables as follows:

• G: Total project goal achievement value (the sustainability index is calculated based on AI-driven impact assessment models that evaluate environmental, social, and economic sustainability metrics). AI tools analyze historical project success rates, carbon footprint reductions, and community engagement levels to determine the sustainability index.
• T: the total time available for project completion is obtained from project schedules and adjusted dynamically using AI scheduling tools that optimize resource allocation and milestone tracking.
• B: the total budget allocated to the project is derived from financial reports and AI cost predictions, incorporating historical data on project expenditures and inflation-adjusted cost estimates.
• R: the resilience factor of the system (measures robustness) is quantified through risk analysis models that assess external disruptions (supply chain risks, regulatory uncertainties) and internal system redundancies.
• F: the flexibility factor of the system (measures adaptability) is determined using machine learning models that evaluate real-time responses to project deviations, enabling dynamic adjustments.
• E: the efficiency of resource utilization is measured using AI-based predictive resource allocation, ensuring optimal distribution of labor, materials, and energy.
• C: the stakeholder confidence level is assessed through sentiment analysis and AI-driven trust indices, incorporating community feedback and stakeholder engagement levels.

AI Parameters:

• A₁: AI’s contribution to risk mitigation (reduces system brittleness). AI-driven risk assessment models evaluate external disruptions (e.g., supply chain failures, regulatory risks) and propose redundancy measures. AI stress-testing tools simulate extreme scenarios, allowing for proactive risk mitigation
• A₂: AI’s predictive accuracy in identifying nonlinear trends. Machine learning models analyze historical trends, real-time data, and system feedback loops to detect nonlinear project dependencies and unexpected interactions. AI-enhanced forecasting helps predict disruptions, demand fluctuations, and emerging risks
• A₃: AI’s ability to process incomprehensible data into actionable insights. AI utilizes natural language processing (NLP) and advanced data visualization tools to convert unstructured complex datasets into meaningful insights. This enables AI to support decision-making in uncertain or ambiguous project scenarios.
• A₄: AI-driven resource optimization efficiency. AI dynamically allocates financial, human, and material resources based on real-time needs and constraints. AI scheduling models continuously optimize project workflows to minimize waste and maximize productivity.

Resources:

• H—human resources.
• M—material resources.
• I—infrastructure resources.

Constraints and External Factors:

• P—probability of disruption (represents brittleness of the environment).
• D—degree of stakeholder anxiety (affects confidence CCC).
• N—nonlinearity factor (quantifies unpredictable outcomes).
• U—uncertainty factor in data interpretation.

3.1.2. Objective Function

The objective is to maximize the overall project sustainability index (GGG) while balancing constraints such as time, budget, and system resilience.

$$max G=w_{1}R+w_{2}F+w_{3}E+w_{4}C-\lambda (P+N+U)$$

(1)

where w₁,w₂,w₃,w₄ are the weights assigned to resilience, flexibility, efficiency, and stakeholder confidence, respectively, based on project priorities. λ is the penalty weight for environmental risks (brittleness, nonlinearity, and uncertainty).

3.1.3. Constraints

Time constraint:

$$\sum _1^n{T}_i\le T$$

(2)

where T_i is the time allocated to each sub-task of the project.

Budget constraint:

$$\sum _1^n{B}_i\le B$$

(3)

where B_i is the budget assigned to each project component.

Resource allocation:

$$\sum _1^n(H{T}_i+M_i+I_i)\le \mathrm{A}\mathrm{v}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{b}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{e} \mathrm{R}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{s}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{r}\mathrm{c}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{s}$$

(4)

Risk mitigation:

$$R=1-(P-A_1)$$

(5)

Flexibility:

$$F={\displaystyle \frac{Adaptive Actions Taken}{Total Possible Actions}}$$

(6)

Efficiency:

$$E={\displaystyle \frac{Output Achieved}{Input Resources Used}}$$

(7)

Stakeholder confidence:

$$C=C_0+A_3-D$$

(8)

where C₀ is the baseline stakeholder confidence.

3.1.4. AI-Driven Enhancements

Risk reduction:

$$P_{adjusted}=P-A_1$$

(9)

Nonlinearity management:

$$N_{adjusted}=N-A_2$$

(10)

Data interpretation:

$$U_{adjusted}=U-A_3$$

(11)

Resource optimization:

$$B_{effective}=B-A_4·Resource Savings$$

(12)

3.1.5. Final Model

Combining the objective function and constraints, the optimization problem becomes:

$$\begin{gathered} \mathrm{m}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{x}G=w_1(1-(P-A_1))+w_{2}F+w_3{\displaystyle \frac{Output Achieved}{Input Resources Used}}+w_4(C_0+ \\ +A_3-D)-\lambda ((P-A_1)+(N-A_2)+(U-A_3)). \end{gathered}$$

(13)

Subject to:

$$\begin{gathered} \sum _1^n{T}_i\le T; \\ \sum _1^n{B}_i\le B_{effective}; \\ {\sum }_1^n=(Hi+Mi+Ii)\le Available Resources; \\ {P}_{adjusted},N_{adjusted},U_{adjusted}\ge 0 \end{gathered}$$

(14)

3.1.6. Implementation Steps

• Data collection: collect data on project objectives, resources, risks, and environmental factors.
• Model initialization: set initial values for w₁, w₂, w_3, w₄ and constraints based on project priorities.
• AI simulation: use AI tools to simulate various scenarios and adjust parameters A₁,A₂,A₃,A₄.
• Optimization algorithm: apply optimization techniques (e.g., linear programming, genetic algorithms) to solve the model.
• Monitoring and feedback: Use real-time data to iteratively update the model and refine strategies.
• This model provides a structured approach to managing sustainable development projects by leveraging AI to address the unique challenges of a BANI environment.

4. Discussion—Case: Implementing an AI-Driven Sustainable Education Program for Master’s Students in AI

4.1. Define Case Study Background

4.1.1. Project Objective

Develop and implement an innovative sustainable education program for Master’s students in AI that integrates sustainability principles, fosters interdisciplinary learning, and leverages AI tools to address real-world challenges in a BANI environment.

4.1.2. Key Challenges

Brittle: limited flexibility in curriculum design due to traditional academic structures.

Anxious: stakeholder concerns about adopting untested AI-driven methods.

Nonlinear: unpredictable outcomes of student innovation projects.

Incomprehensible: difficulty in integrating complex interdisciplinary content into a coherent program.

4.1.3. AI Tools Used

Curriculum design optimization: AI-based analysis of labor market trends and sustainability challenges to design relevant course modules.

Dynamic resource allocation: AI systems allocate faculty, resources, and tools based on real-time project needs.

Predictive analytics: machine learning models predict student outcomes and identify potential risks in project completion.

AI-Driven collaboration platforms: facilitate interdisciplinary teamwork and stakeholder engagement through intelligent task management and communication tools.

Monitoring and evaluation systems: real-time tracking of student progress and program impact against predefined sustainability metrics.

4.2. Implementation Stages

4.2.1. Stage 1. Planning

BANI assessment: identified that traditional academic structures were too rigid for a program requiring rapid adaptation to new developments in AI and sustainability.

AI deployment: used AI algorithms to analyze industry needs and global sustainability goals, shaping a curriculum that included courses on AI ethics, environmental modeling, and sustainable systems design.

4.2.2. Stage 2. Execution

Flexible curriculum delivery: AI recommended adjustments to course timelines based on student progress and real-world developments.

Student projects: teams used AI tools to model sustainable solutions, such as optimizing energy consumption in smart buildings or designing predictive models for climate change impacts.

Real-time feedback: AI monitoring systems provided instructors and students with performance metrics and suggestions for improvement.

4.2.3. Stage 3: Evaluation

Outcome measurement: AI evaluated project outcomes against sustainability indicators, including carbon reduction potential, social impact, and economic feasibility.

Stakeholder feedback: collected via AI-driven sentiment analysis tools, ensuring continuous improvement.

4.3. Results and Key Insights

Enhanced program flexibility: AI-enabled curriculum adjustments allowed the program to remain relevant and responsive to global challenges.

Improved student outcomes: predictive analytics helped identify students at risk of falling behind, enabling targeted support; 85% of student projects demonstrated measurable contributions to sustainability goals.

Stakeholder satisfaction: transparent decision making and real-time updates built trust among faculty, students, and industry partners.

Scalability: the program’s AI-driven framework was adaptable to other universities and disciplines, promoting wider adoption.

Challenges encountered:

Data quality issues: initial AI models struggled with incomplete or inconsistent data from academic and industry sources.

Solution: improved data collection processes and partnered with external organizations for richer datasets.

Stakeholder resistance: some faculty and students were skeptical about the reliability of AI tools.

Solution: conducted training sessions and workshops to build trust and familiarity with AI systems.

Ethical concerns: concerns arose about potential biases in AI-driven evaluations.

Solution: implemented regular audits of AI algorithms to ensure fairness and transparency.

The AI-driven sustainable education program for Master’s students in AI demonstrated the transformative potential of AI in managing complex interdisciplinary projects in a BANI environment. By addressing challenges such as brittle systems, anxious stakeholders, nonlinear project outcomes, and incomprehensible data, the program achieved significant success in fostering innovation, sustainability, and adaptability.

This case study highlights the importance of integrating AI tools into PM frameworks to optimize outcomes and ensure alignment with sustainability goals.

The numerical example applies the mathematical model to the implementation of an AI-driven sustainable education program for Master’s students in AI within a BANI (brittle, anxious, nonlinear, incomprehensible) environment. Let us define the scenario, assign realistic values to variables, set up the optimization problem, and solve it step-by-step to demonstrate the model’s application.

A university aims to launch an AI-driven sustainable education program for Master’s students specializing in AI. The program uses AI tools to deliver personalized learning, optimize resource use, and ensure sustainability (e.g., reducing energy consumption via online platforms). The BANI environment includes the following:

Brittleness: risk of tech failures or funding cuts.

Anxiety: stakeholders (students and faculty) are uncertain about AI’s role in education.

Nonlinearity: unpredictable enrolment trends or tech adoption rates.

Incomprehensibility: ambiguity in how AI impacts learning outcomes long-term.

The goal is to maximize the sustainability index (G) while adhering to time, budget, and resource constraints, leveraging AI enhancements.

Step 1: assign numerical values.

Project variables:

T = 12 months (total time to implement the program).

B = USD 500,000 (total budget).

R₀ = 0.5 (baseline resilience, scale 0–1, moderate robustness to disruptions).

F₀ = 0.4 (baseline flexibility, scale 0–1, moderate adaptability).

E₀ = 0.6 (baseline efficiency, scale 0–1, decent resource use).

C₀ = 0.7 (baseline stakeholder confidence, scale 0–1, good initial trust).

AI parameters:

A₁ = 0.8 (AI effectively reduces brittleness, e.g., via predictive maintenance of tech).

A₂ = 0.7 (AI predicts nonlinear enrolment trends with good accuracy).

A₃ = 0.6 (AI moderately interprets complex student data into insights).

A₄ = 0.9 (AI optimizes resources very efficiently, e.g., scheduling and energy use).

Resources:

H = 10 (10 faculty/staff, in person units).

M = 50 (50 units of materials, e.g., software licenses, arbitrary scale).

I = 5 (5 infrastructure units, e.g., servers, arbitrary scale).

Constraints/external factors:

P = 0.3 (30% chance of disruption, e.g., tech outage or funding delay).

D = 0.2 (20% stakeholder anxiety due to AI unfamiliarity).

N = 0.4 (40% nonlinearity in outcomes, e.g., unpredictable student engagement).

U₀ = 0.5 (50% baseline uncertainty in long-term AI impact).

Weights:

w₁ = 0.3 (resilience prioritized due to brittleness).

w₂ = 0.2 (flexibility less critical but relevant).

w₃ = 0.3 (efficiency key for sustainability).

w₄ = 0.2 (confidence important for adoption).

λ = 0.1 (moderate penalty for BANI risks).

Sub-tasks:

Three sub-tasks: (1) curriculum design, (2) AI platform setup, (3) delivery.

T₁ = 4, T₂ = 3, T₃ = 5 months (∑T_i = 12).

B₁ = 150,000, B₂ = 200,000, B₃ = USD 150,000 (∑B_i = 500,000).

Step 2: calculate AI enhancements.

Using the AI-driven equations:

Risk reduction: R = R₀ + A₁P = 0.5 + 0.8·0.3 = 0.5 + 0.24 = 0.74.

Nonlinearity management: F = F₀ + A₂N = 0.4 + 0.7·0.4 = 0.4 + 0.28 = 0.68.

Data interpretation: U = U₀ − A₃ = 0.5 − 0.6 = −0.1 (assume U ≥ 0).

Resource optimization: E = E₀ + A₄(H + M + I) = 0.6 + 0.9·(10 + 50 + 5) = 0.6 + 0.9·65 = 0.6 + 58.5 = 59.1 (assume E ≤ 1).

Adjusted E = 1 (maximum efficiency due to AI optimization).

Step 3: objective function.

G = w₁R + w₂F + w₃E + w₄C − λ(P + N + U)

C = C₀(1 − D) = 0.7·(1 − 0.2) = 0.7·0.8 = 0.56 (minimum constraint value, assume actual C = 0.7 if higher).

Substitute:

G = 0.3·0.74 + 0.2·0.68 + 0.3·1 + 0.2·0.7 − 0.1·(0.3 + 0.4 + 0) G = 0.222 + 0.136 + 0.3 + 0.14 − 0.1·0.7 G = 0.798 − 0.07 = 0.728

Step 4: check constraints.

Time: 4 + 3 + 5 = 12 ≤ 12 (satisfied).

Budget: 150,000 + 200,000 + 150,000 = 500,000 ≤ 500,000 (satisfied).

Resources: H = 10, M = 50, I = 5 ≥ 0 (satisfied).

Risk mitigation: R = 0.74 ≥ A1(1 − P) = 0.8·(1 − 0.3) = 0.56 (satisfied).

Flexibility: F = 0.68 ≥ A₂(1 − N) = 0.7·(1 − 0.4) = 0.42 (satisfied).

Efficiency: E = 1 ≤ A₄(H + M + I) = 0.9·65 = 58.5 (adjust E ≤ 1, conceptually satisfied).

Confidence: C = 0.7 ≥ 0.56 (satisfied).

All constraints hold.

Step 5: interpretation.

Sustainability index (G): 0.728 (scale 0–1), indicating a strong outcome.

Insights: AI significantly boosts resilience (R = 0.74) and flexibility (F = 0.68), mitigating brittleness and nonlinearity.

Efficiency reaches its maximum (E = 1) due to AI optimization of faculty, software, and servers.

Stakeholder confidence (C = 0.7) remains solid but could improve if anxiety (D) is further reduced.

The penalty (−0.07) reflects manageable BANI risks.

Step 6: optimization adjustment.

Suppose we prioritize stakeholder confidence (w4 = 0.4, reduce w1 = 0.2) and use AI to lower D to 0.1:

New C = 0.7·(1 − 0.1) = 0.63, assume C = 0.8 with effort.

Recalculate G = 0.2·0.74 + 0.2·0.68 + 0.3·1 + 0.4·0.8 − 0.1·(0.3 + 0.4 + 0) G = 0.148 + 0.136 + 0.3 + 0.32 − 0.07 = 0.834.

Result: G rises to 0.834, showing improved sustainability by focusing on confidence.

For this AI-driven sustainable education program: the initial G = 0.728 indicates a viable sustainable project with strong AI contributions.

Adjusting priorities (e.g., boosting C) can increase G to 0.834, optimizing stakeholder buy-in.

Recommendations: invest in AI tools to further iteratively reduce D (e.g., transparent communication) and monitor N (enrolment trends).

5. Strategic Recommendations for Managing Sustainable Development Projects in a BANI Environment with AI Tools

To ensure the success of sustainable development projects in the challenging BANI (brittle, anxious, nonlinear, incomprehensible) environment, strategic interventions must address both contextual complexities and the capabilities of AI tools. Below, actionable recommendations (Table 7) are shown.

Table 7. Strategic recommendations for managing sustainable development projects in a BANI environment.

BANI Characteristic	Challenge	Strategies	Example
Brittle (B)	Fragile systems are prone to collapse under minor disruptions.	Diversify resources Implement robust frameworks Adopt modular approaches	A renewable energy project could use AI to model the impact of supply chain disruptions and design flexible contingency plans.
Anxious (A)	Anxiety and resistance hinder decision making and project adoption.	Transparent communication Stakeholder engagement Training and support	Deploy an AI chatbot to answer common stakeholder questions and provide quick access to project data.
Nonlinear (N)	Small changes can have unpredictable and outsized effects.	Dynamic project planning Scenario modeling Interdisciplinary collaboration	In urban sustainability projects, AI could help predict the ripple effects of a transportation policy on housing and energy use.
Incomprehensible (I)	Complex systems are difficult to analyze and interpret.	Data integration Simplified visualizations Focus on explainable AI (XAI)	An AI-driven tool could provide real-time visualizations of carbon emissions data to help stakeholders understand the impact of sustainability interventions.
Leveraging AI for Strategic Innovation	Staying ahead of disruptions while maintaining alignment with sustainability goals.	Innovation labs Predictive opportunity identification Focus on scalability	AI could identify regions with the highest potential for renewable energy expansion based on predictive analytics of environmental and economic factors.
Balancing Ethical Considerations	AI tools must be used responsibly to ensure fairness and inclusivity.	AI governance frameworks Bias audits Community involvement	In a sustainable housing project, AI tools could be audited to ensure equitable allocation of resources among underserved communities.
Measuring Success and Continuous Improvement	Ensuring projects remain aligned with objectives amidst evolving conditions.	Define clear metrics Feedback loops Scalable insights	AI could analyze post-project data to suggest improvements for scaling sustainable development initiatives.
Aligning AI with Human Expertise	Maximizing the synergy between AI tools and human decision making.	Human–AI collaboration Capacity building Balanced decision making	AI could identify potential project risks, while human managers evaluate their broader implications.

The strategic alignment of AI tools with the complexities of the BANI environment ensures that sustainable development projects are resilient, adaptive, and impactful. These recommendations provide a structured approach to overcoming challenges, leveraging AI’s strengths while maintaining ethical and human-centric PM principles.

6. Conclusions

The integration of AI tools into the management of sustainable development projects offers a transformative approach to addressing the challenges of operating in a BANI environment. This paper has explored how AI technologies can enhance resilience, foster adaptability, and optimize decision-making processes across complex value chains, ensuring alignment with sustainability goals. By leveraging AI-driven predictive analytics, resource optimization, and decision-support systems, the proposed framework effectively addresses the complexities and uncertainties that are inherent in sustainable project management. The case study on implementing an AI-driven sustainable education program demonstrates the practical application and effectiveness of the framework, showcasing improvements in resilience, adaptability, and overall project outcomes.

This study significantly contributes to both theoretical and practical domains by bridging the gap between sustainable development and digital transformation. Theoretically, it enriches the literature on project management by introducing a novel framework that incorporates AI tools to navigate the challenges of the BANI environment [13,15,36]. This aligns with the findings of [37,38], who emphasize the necessity of adaptive and resilient management strategies in volatile contexts. The framework also expands on the work of [22,23] by highlighting the role of AI in enhancing leadership and team dynamics within project environments. To further substantiate these findings, a numerical example is incorporated, illustrating the application of the proposed model in quantifying AI-driven performance enhancements. The example evaluates project sustainability metrics, resilience factors, and efficiency improvements, offering an empirical basis for assessing AI’s contributions to optimizing project execution. The analysis demonstrates that AI-enabled risk management significantly improves project resilience, while predictive modeling enhances adaptability by reducing uncertainty in planning and execution. Additionally, AI-driven resource optimization leads to tangible efficiency gains, reinforcing the model’s capability to support sustainable project outcomes in dynamic environments.

Practically, the framework offers actionable strategies for project managers to optimize resource allocation, mitigate risks, and improve decision-making processes. The integration of AI tools into project management practices fosters enhanced resilience and efficiency, as supported by studies on AI’s role in resource optimization and risk assessment [5,6,38]. This study’s application to a real-world case exemplifies how AI can drive substantial improvements in project execution, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability outcomes, thus offering valuable insights for policymakers and industry practitioners.

Despite its contributions, this study has several limitations. The conceptual framework was validated through a single case study, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research could address this by applying the framework across diverse sectors and geographical contexts to evaluate its robustness. Additionally, the reliance on AI tools introduces concerns regarding data quality and algorithmic bias, as noted by Jobin and Ienca [8]. These factors could impact decision-making processes and stakeholder trust, suggesting the need for continuous audits and ethical governance of AI systems. This study also does not extensively address the scalability of the proposed framework for large-scale projects, which could be explored further.

To strengthen the framework’s validation, incorporating AI-driven quantitative simulations into case studies is recommended. AI-powered models can predict energy consumption trends in sustainable cities, optimize transportation networks to minimize carbon emissions, and enhance resource allocation through machine learning. These approaches would provide measurable evidence of AI’s role in managing sustainable projects within a BANI environment, ensuring scalability and real-world applicability.

Future research should focus on testing the proposed framework across various industries and regions to assess its adaptability and effectiveness in different sustainable development contexts. Investigating the long-term impacts of AI-driven project management on sustainability goals would provide deeper insights into the framework’s efficacy. Additionally, developing standardized ethical guidelines and bias mitigation strategies for AI applications in project management could enhance stakeholder trust and project outcomes. Further exploration into integrating AI tools with policy-making processes could also expand the framework’s applicability in governmental and regulatory settings.