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Macro Uncertainty Impacts on ESG Performance and Carbon Emission Reduction Targets

Author

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  • Maha Alandejani

    (Economics Department, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia)

  • Habiba Al-Shaer

    (Newcastle University Business School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4SE, UK)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of three macro uncertainty factors: economic policy uncertainty (EPU), political instability (PIS), and cultural uncertainty avoidance (UA), on corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and carbon emission reduction targets. Additionally, we examine whether these macro factors are affected by the profitability of the company. Using an unbalanced sample of companies located in the USA, China, and the UK during the period 2013–2020, results show that during times of economic uncertainty, companies are more likely to engage in ESG activities, including establishing emission reduction targets. Companies in countries with lower levels of political stability (PS) exhibit greater levels of social and environmental engagements, and companies operating in societies that tolerate risks, including the risk associated with climate change, are more likely to have better ESG performance and be committed to emission reduction targets. The results also suggest that profitable companies are more likely to deal with uncertain environments successfully, as they have the required resources to invest in ESG. The study suggests several practical implications for managers and policymakers.

Suggested Citation

  • Maha Alandejani & Habiba Al-Shaer, 2023. "Macro Uncertainty Impacts on ESG Performance and Carbon Emission Reduction Targets," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-15, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:5:p:4249-:d:1082223
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    Cited by:

    1. Yuchen An & Kunliang Jiang & Jiashan Song, 2023. "Does a Cross-Correlation of Economic Policy Uncertainty with China’s Carbon Market Really Exist? A Perspective on Fractal Market Hypothesis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(14), pages 1-18, July.
    2. Costantiello, Alberto & Leogrande, Angelo, 2023. "The Determinants of CO2 Emissions in the Context of ESG Models at World Level," MPRA Paper 117110, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    3. Costantiello, Alberto & Leogrande, Angelo, 2023. "The Role Of Gdp Growth In The Esg Approach At World Level," SocArXiv r56hu, Center for Open Science.
    4. Aiping Wang & Bin Dou & Xingfang Guo & Haifeng Hu, 2023. "Economic Policy Uncertainty: Does It Truly Matter?—Evidence from Corporate Fraudulent Behaviors in Chinese Capital Market," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(6), pages 1-31, March.

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