Society 5.0, Sustainability, and Social Aspects of the Gig Economy

This chapter critically explores the intersection of Society 5.0 and the gig economy, emphasizing the urgent need for ethical, inclusive, and sustainable labor models in an age of rapid technological transformation. It begins by unpacking the conceptual foundations of Society 5.0 as a human-centric paradigm and contrasts them with the exploitative structures common in gig work. Through the analysis of environmental, economic, social, and institutional sustainability dimensions, the chapter highlights the systemic misalignments between current gig platforms and Society 5.0 ideals. Drawing from global policy frameworks, platform case studies, and interdisciplinary research, it examines issues such as algorithmic governance, data justice, worker well-being, and cooperative alternatives. Ultimately, the chapter argues that realizing the vision of Society 5.0 requires not only technological innovation but also participatory governance, ethical artificial intelligence (AI), and institutional redesign. It offers pathways for transforming gig work from a site of digital precarity into one of equitable, future-ready labor.