Governance, Ethics, and Leadership for Sustainability: A Systematic Literature Review of ESG Implementation in Public Sector Organizations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70142/jbl.v2i2.63Keywords:
ESG implementation, public sector governance, ethical leadership, sustainability governance, systematic literature reviewAbstract
This study presents a systematic literature review (SLR) of ESG implementation in public sector organizations, with a specific focus on the interrelated roles of governance, ethics, and leadership in promoting sustainability. Following the PRISMA framework, the study synthesizes findings from peer reviewed studies published up to 2024. The review reveals that ESG implementation in the public sector has evolved from a compliance based reporting tool into a strategic governance mechanism that enhances accountability, transparency, and sustainability performance (Deb, 2024; Sholikin et al., 2024). Governance structures are identified as the primary enablers of ESG integration, while ethical governance ensures institutional legitimacy and reduces symbolic or “greenwashing” practices (Zahari et al., 2024). Leadership is found to be a critical driver that aligns organizational culture with sustainability objectives and strengthens ESG execution across administrative levels (Said et al., 2024; Waxin et al., 2023). Overall, the study highlights the integrated influence of governance, ethics, and leadership in shaping effective ESG implementation in public sector organizations.
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