Interpretation of ESG: Systematic literature review

Abstract

Purpose: this study aims to analyze the interpretation of the concept ESG in Russian-language publications in the scientometric database of the Russian Science Citation Index. Methodology: the literature review is conducted according to the international PRISMA standard by using frequency, correlation and cluster analysis methods of the keyword corpus. Findings: national researchers interpret the concept ESG primarily from the perspective of enterprise development management and investment decision-making. Since 2019 there has been observed an exponential growth of Russian-language papers which mention the abbreviation ESG, however, this study has not identified any consistent pattern of forming the keywords list. Additionally, no meaningful relationship between the relevant keywords and the paper citation rate is observed. Originality and contribution: this study is an attempt to fill the gap in systematic reviews of the Russianlanguage scientific literature on the interpretation of the concept ESG and to contribute to its rethinking as regards the management of companies in Russia.