Analysis of implementing and developing ESG reporting in Russian companies

Abstract

The process of implementing and developing ESG reporting in Russian companies has been considered using the four backbone organizations cases such as Sberbank, SIBUR, Russian Railways, and RUSAL. The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of non-financial reporting of companies for the period 2020–2024 using comparative and systematic approaches, which allowed to obtain objective and comprehensive results. A detailed analysis of financial indicators in the context of ESG transformation has been carried out, as well as corporate documents, regulations, and reports on sustainable development have been studied, which made it possible to assess the dynamics of changes. A direct relationship has been revealed a,ong the ESG practices quality, the level of social responsibility, and the financial efficiency in companies. The key factors of successful ESG transformation have been identified, including specialized management structures creation, the ESG metrics integration into the key performance indicators system, and digital monitoring tools development. The study results can be used by Russian companies to improve non-financial reporting practices, increase the ESG transformation effectiveness, and achieve strategic goals. The ESG principles implementation helps to increase business sustainability, reduce operational risks, and improve financial performance, even during economic instability. Promising directions for ESG reporting development in Russia have been identified, including further improvement of the regulatory framework.