A trend analysis of research on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance: A bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance has become a critical area of focus in both academic research and corporate practice due to its significance in promoting sustainable development and responsible investment. This current study report presents a bibliometric analysis of the literature on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance from 2013 to 2023. The study encompasses a dataset of 225 documents sourced from 112 academic journals and other materials in the Scopus database. Using R-Studio and VOSviewer in the document analysis, the study reveals a strong annual growth rate of 26.81 %, with increasing global collaboration (22.22 % international co-authorship) and significant contributions from institutions in China, Italy, and Germany. Thematic analysis identified key areas of focus, including governance approaches and sustainable development as motor themes, alongside emerging themes like decision-making and environmental impacts. The findings highlight the practical importance of ESG in driving corporate governance, enhancing investment strategies, and shaping policy decisions. This study underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and standardized ESG metrics to bridge research gaps and promote actionable insights for businesses and policymakers. By mapping the intellectual landscape of ESG research, this paper offers a valuable resource for academics, practitioners, and decision-makers seeking to advance sustainability practices and align them with organizational goals.