Assessment of Corporate Sustainable Development: the Integral Esg Index as a Tool For Competitiveness Analysis

Abstract

The article examines the relationship between implementing sustainable development strategies and enhancingcompetitiveness among Ukrainian enterprises amid global economic turbulence and rising ESG requirements. The purpose of the study is to assess the impact of ESG instruments on financial performance, non-financial outcomes, and the long-term resilience of enterprises across different sectors of the economy. The research methodology is based on the construction of an integrated ESG index that combines financial performance, non-financial outcomes, and sustainability levels. Each component is assessed on a five-point scale, enabling calculation of a standardised ESG maturity index ranging from 0 to 100%. The empirical analysis is based on a sample of six Ukrainian companies. The results show that enterprises with high ESG index values demonstrate stronger financial stability, increased reputational capital, active stakeholder engagement, and greater investment attractiveness. A high level of ESG maturity was observed in companies that systematically implement sustainability initiatives and ensure transparent non-financial reporting. In contrast, enterprises with lower ESG scores apply ESG principles inconsistently. The findings confirm that ESG strategies function not only as instruments of social responsibility but also as effective drivers of enterprise competitiveness. The practical value of the study lies in the application of the proposed ESG index as a tool for strategic analysis and comparative assessment of enterprises in the context of European integration and post-war economic recovery.