From ESG to Sustainable Development: A Path Designed for the Triple Helix Spheres

Abstract

ABSTRACT This work examines the relationship between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives and sustainable development (SD), highlighting a scientific gap in their effective connection. It aims to propose a framework with recommendations for promoting SD through ESG, considering the governmental, business, and academic spheres from the triple helix (TH) perspective. This framework provides guidelines for public policies, corporate practices, and scientific research, fostering a sustainable balance between the economy, society, and the environment. Using the scientific methods of content analysis and technical–scientific scenario, various sources were analyzed, including patents, legislation, corporate reports, and scientific articles from leading ESG countries. Its findings indicate that the strategic implementation of ESG enhances public governance, strengthens corporate competitiveness, and drives academic innovation. Theoretically, this work articulates ESG and TH to advance SD theory. Practically, it enables governments, businesses, and academia to promote SD in an integrated manner.