University of Isfahan Applied Research on English Language 3134-0644 15 2 2026 04 01 Digital Literacy, Ethics and Sustainability in English for Business: An Implicit CLIL Approach in Higher Education 199 234 30633 10.22108/are.2026.149295.2761 EN Nur Aflahatun Universitas Pancasakti Tegal, Indonesia Endang Sulistianingsih Universitas Pancasakti Tegal, Indonesia Sumar Tono Universitas Pancasakti Tegal, Indonesia Sanday Jamaludin Universitas Pancasakti Tegal, Indonesia Fajar Prihatini Universitas Pancasakti Tegal, Indonesia Journal Article 2026 06 12 The digitalization of business environments has created a demand for graduates with integrated language, digital, ethical, and sustainability competencies. However, the teaching of English for business in higher education is often language-oriented and separated from the disciplines. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore the use of an implicit Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach to embed digital literacy, ethics and sustainability principles in English for business teaching to digital business students. The study was conducted over one semester (14 weeks) involving 42 second-year undergraduate students at Universitas Pancasakti Tegal, Indonesia. Data were collected from course materials, student assignments, reflective journals, field notes by the instructor, and final projects. Thematic analysis was conducted following the six phases of analysis outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006) and was aided by NVivo 12 for coding. Trustworthiness was ensured by inter-coder reliability (Cohen’s κ = 0.82) and member checking. Most students (n=38, 90%) indicated that CLIL-based activities increased their understanding of the requirements of professional communication in comparison to previous language-focused courses. Implicit CLIL is an effective way of integrating subject content and language learning, developing students’ professional communication competence and increasing motivation and engagement. The study offers a pedagogical framework for ESP educators interested in orienting business English instruction towards the exigencies of today's work environment. https://are.ui.ac.ir/article_30633_faf61d0b70c5852c89e8941b8cfb7f81.pdf