Wolters Kluwer survey highlights growing AI investment in EHS management

Wolters Kluwer, a global provider of professional information, software solutions, and services, has released new survey findings revealing significant trends around Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption in Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) management.

According to the survey, 49% of EHS functions plan to invest in AI within the next 12 months, and 77% prioritise AI skills when recruiting.

Richard Pulliam, SVP and General Manager of Wolters Kluwer EHS & ESG, commented, “AI promises to revolutionise EHS by enabling leaders to collect data, and then interpret, plan, predict and act with unprecedented speed, accuracy, and efficiency. With nearly half of EHS teams planning to invest in AI in the coming year, the ability to collect high-quality data from across the enterprise will be crucial to optimising this potential. We are deeply committed to driving innovation and providing game-changing technologies to ensure EHS teams are future-ready.”

EHS teams slow to adopt AI compared to other business functions
While AI is reshaping many industries, EHS teams have been slower to implement the technology. Only 28% of EHS practitioners reported current AI use within their departments. In contrast, 62% said AI adoption in their EHS function lagged behind other areas of their business.

Investment in AI is growing, but budget clarity is needed
Nearly half of the survey respondents reported active plans to invest in AI technologies over the next year. However, 38% were uncertain about their department’s AI investment intentions, suggesting a need for clearer communication about available budgets and strategies. Only 13% of respondents stated there were no plans to invest in AI.

Developing AI skills a rising priority for EHS teams
Building AI capabilities is becoming increasingly important. According to the survey, 25% of EHS practitioners currently have no AI skills or experience, and 61% classify themselves as beginners. Encouragingly, half of EHS functions have either already provided AI training or plan to offer it soon.

When it comes to recruitment, AI skills are highly valued. A significant 77% of respondents noted that AI expertise is an important consideration when hiring, reflecting a dual strategy of upskilling existing teams and attracting new talent with relevant capabilities.

The survey, conducted with 162 EHS professionals at the Wolters Kluwer Sustainable Performance Forum (SPF) 2025, underscores a clear shift: while EHS has been slower to adopt AI compared to other fields, investment and skills development are becoming key priorities. As businesses continue to focus on improving efficiency, safety, and compliance, AI is poised to play a critical role in transforming EHS practices.