Journal

EDITORIAL

Welcome to the inaugural edition of the International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting, where we bring together a diverse collection of research and insights aimed at driving sustainable development across various sectors. As we launch Volume 1, Issue 1, we are deeply honoured to present a compendium of profound studies that highlight the importance of innovation, sustainability, and strategic management in addressing contemporary challenges.In this issue, eight (8) papers are presented. We begin with an in-depth study by Adeyemi Aderin on modelling financial distress in the Nigerian banking sector. This research not only underscores the critical role of banks in economic stability but also offers a robust model with a 91.4% success rate in predicting financial distress. Such predictive tools are essential for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of financial institutions in Africa.Deborah Ama Duker, Edward Badu, Michael Adesi, and Anita Odame Adade-Boateng provide a comprehensive review of health and safety management in Ghana’s construction industry. Their findings on behaviour, communication, and training offer practical knowledge to minimize health and safety risks, ensuring the well-being of construction operatives.Emmanuel Mends Fynn, De-Graft Owusu-Manu, Michael Adesi, and Bismark Duodu explore the intricate dynamics of stakeholder management in the sustainability of corporate social responsibility projects. Their systematic review reveals the complexity and necessity of effective stakeholder engagement for the success of CSR initiatives.We also delve into the barriers to sustainable public-works procurement in Ghana with a study by Jerry Junior Gyimah and colleagues. Their identification of significant impediments highlights the need for improved compliance to achieve sustainable development goals.

Patricia Kio introduces an innovative workflow, CIPaDe, for sustainable construction materials development. Her study on circular immersive parametric design emphasizes the transformative potential of integrating BIM and VR in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. Chinwe V. Ogunji and co-authors tackle the pressing issue of climate change and its health consequences on education in Nigeria. Their insightful investigation calls for proactive measures to mitigate climate impacts on students’ health and educational outcomes.Aloysius Sam, Clinton O. Aigbavboa, and Wellington D. Thwala offer a systematic review of leadership development in Ghana’s construction industry. Their research sheds light on the pivotal role of leadership in driving sustainable practices within the sector.Finally, Simon Sebuabe and his team present a framework for implementing public value in infrastructure projects. Their work is a significant step towards ensuring that infrastructure developments align with sustainable development goals and deliver tangible benefits to the public.We are excited to share these groundbreaking studies and look forward to fostering an ongoing dialogue on sustainability, innovation, and strategic management. We hope the insights provided in this issue will inspire further research and action towards creating a more sustainable and resilient future.

Thank you for joining us on this journey.

Editor-In-Chief

JOURNAL BACKGROUND

In recent years, ESG factors and sustainability have become integral  considerations for organizations across sectors. The importance of transparent and comprehensive reporting on ESG performance has gained substantial recognition as stakeholders increasingly seek information on the environmental and social impact of organizations, as well as their governance practices. As a result, there is a growing need for rigorous academic research and best practices in ESG and sustainability reporting to guide decision-making processes, support accountability, and foster sustainable development.

To drive the adoption and practices of ESG and sustainability principles the Green Communities International is introducing the International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting, a groundbreaking publication dedicated to advancing research and knowledge in the field of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and sustainability reporting. This journal serves as a platform for scholars, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to contribute to the growing body of literature and exchange ideas on ESG and sustainability reporting practices. The International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting aims to bridge the gap between academia and practice by providing a platform for high-quality research, case studies, and critical insights.

The journal welcomes contributions from various disciplines, including but not limited to business, built environment, engineering, finance, accounting, economics, environmental studies, and social sciences. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the journal seeks to generate knowledge that inform and influence ESG and sustainability reporting frameworks, policies, and strategies.The journal will showcase original research articles, reviews, and thought-provoking perspectives that explore emerging trends, methodologies, and practical applications in ESG and sustainability reporting. The journal’s rigorous peer-review process will ensure that published articles meet the highest standards of academic excellence and contribute to the advancement of the field.

In addition to research articles, the International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting will feature editorials, interviews, and expert commentaries from leading scholars and practitioners. This diversity of perspectives will enrich the dialogue and provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in ESG and sustainability reporting practices. Articles from researchers, academics, practitioners, and policymakers will be published in order to contribute their expertise and innovative ideas to the International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting. This will shape the future of ESG and sustainability reporting, driving positive change and fostering a more sustainable and equitable world.

ABOUT THE JOURNAL PHILOSOPHY AND CONCEPTUAL POSITIONING OF THE JOURNAL

The International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting is founded on the philosophy that rigorous academic research and comprehensive reporting are essential for advancing the understanding and practice of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and sustainability reporting. This journal aims to foster a scholarly community that embraces interdisciplinary collaboration, encourages critical thinking, and promotes the development of robust reporting frameworks.Philosophically, the International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting would be driven by evidence-based research informed by a deep understanding of the complex environmental, social, and governance challenges facing the world. By exploring the interplay between economic, social, and environmental dimensions, the journal seeks to contribute to the development of sustainable practices that can address the urgent global challenges confronting mankind. Thus, the conceptual positioning of the journal would be anchored in the following key principles:

  • Academic Rigor: commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic rigor, and ensuring that published articles undergo a rigorous peer-review process. By promoting sound research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and empirical analysis the journal will advance academic discourse and provide a reliable foundation for decision-making in the realm of ESG and sustainability reporting.
  • Interdisciplinarity: recognising the multidimensional nature of ESG and sustainability reporting and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, the journal will welcome contributions from diverse fields, including business, finance, accounting, economics, environmental studies, and social sciences. By fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue to generate holistic insights and innovative approaches that address complex sustainability challenges.
  • Practical Relevance: to bridge the gap between theory and practice by encouraging research that has practical implications for organizations, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in ESG and sustainability reporting. By showcasing best practices, case studies, and actionable insights, the journal seeks to facilitate the effective implementation of sustainable reporting frameworks and strategies.
  • Global Perspective: embrace a global perspective, recognizing that ESG and sustainability reporting are vital issues across diverse regions and cultures. The journal will encourage contributions that explore regional nuances, comparative studies, and the impact of ESG factors on global sustainability goals. By fostering a global dialogue, the journal seeks to promote international collaboration and facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences.
  • Ethical Integrity: the journal upholds the principles of ethical integrity, transparency, and accountability by ensuring contributors adhere to high ethical standards and responsible use of data, respecting intellectual property rights, and disclosing potential conflicts of interest to uphold the credibility and trustworthiness of the journal.
  • Through the philosophy and conceptual positioning, the International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting will make a significant contribution to the advancement of knowledge, practice, and policy in the field of ESG and sustainability reportng.

THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL FULFILLMENT OF THE JOURNAL

The practical fulfillment of the journal lies in bridging the gap between theory and real-world application by publishing and disseminating research that does not only contributes to the academic understanding of ESG and sustainability reporting but also provides practical insights and guidance to organisations, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in sustainable practices. By showcasing best practices, case studies, and actionable recommendations, the journal will facilitate the implementation of effective reporting frameworks and strategies. It serves as a valuable resource for practitioners seeking evidence-based approaches to address pressing sustainability challenges, fostering collaboration, and driving positive change. The theoretical perspective of the journal is entrenched in its intellectual contributions to the field of ESG and sustainability reporting. The editorial team of the journal is committed to publishing cutting-edge research that advances theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and conceptual understanding. By encouraging rigorous academic inquiry, the journal expands the frontiers of knowledge and stimulates critical thinking in the realm of sustainability reporting. It provides a space for scholars to explore emerging trends, tackle theoretical debates, and generate novel insights into the complex relationships between environmental, social, and governance factors. Through the publication of high-quality research, the journal will contribute to the theoretical foundation of ESG and sustainability reporting, enriching the academic discourse and informing future research endeavors.

FOCUS AND COVERAGE

The International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting is multidisciplinary focusing on wide range of topics which include but not limited to: ESG and Sustainability of Continental Free Trade Area

  • ESG and Sustainability of Public and Private Sector Institutions
  • Social Innovations, Entrepreneurship and Indigenous Knowledge Management
  • Sustainable Innovations in the Built Environment Ecosystem
  • Sustainable Innovations in Urban Configuration and Mobility
  • Environmental and Social Governance Systems for Sustainable Development
  • ESG Reporting Frameworks and metrics
  • Sustainable Construction
  • Sustainable Building Materials
  • Sustainable Property Investment and Land Administration
  • Green Building and Green Cities
  • Sustainable Project Management
  • Sustainable Business Management and Finance
  • Sustainable Healthcare Delivery
  • Sustainable Procurement Management
  • Food Security and Climate-Smart Agricultural Technology
  • Integration of ESG into decisionmaking
  • Stakeholder engagement and communication
  • Carbon Finance/Carbon Credit in Africa
  • Green Energy, Green Finance and Green Infrastructure
  • ESG Training in Higher Education Institutions

AUDIENCE AND READERSHIP

The International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting attracts a diverse audience composed of researchers, scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and professionals from various disciplines and sectors. The journal serves as a valuable resource for individuals and organisations seeking to deepen their understanding of ESG and sustainability reporting and stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in the field.

  • Academics and Researchers:
  • Scholars and researchers in fields such as business, finance, accounting, built environment, engineering, economics, environmental studies, social sciences, and related disciplines form a significant portion of the journal’s readership. They rely on the journal to access high-quality research articles, theoretical frameworks, empirical studies, and methodological advancements that contribute to the academic discourse on ESG and sustainability reporting.
  • Practitioners and Professionals:
  • Professionals working in the areas of sustainability, corporate social responsibility, ESG integration, reporting, and related fields find our journal invaluable for practical insights and guidance. The articles offer best practices, case studies, and actionable recommendations that inform their decision-making processes, help them navigate regulatory frameworks, and enhance their implementation of sustainable business strategies.
  • Corporate and Organisational Leaders:
  • Executives, managers, and leaders of organizations across various sectors value our journal as a source of knowledge and inspiration. They seek guidance on integrating ESG factors into their strategic decision-making, improving sustainability performance, engaging stakeholders effectively, and enhancing their reporting practices. The journal will offer them practical examples, innovative approaches, and thought-provoking ideas to drive positive change within their organizations.
  • Students and Educators:
  • Students pursuing degrees in business, sustainability, finance, accounting, and related fields rely on the journal to deepen their understanding of ESG and sustainability reporting. The articles serve as a valuable resource for literature reviews, research projects, and academic assignments. Educators incorporate the journal into their teaching materials to expose students to cutting-edge research and real-world applications.

TYPES OF RESEARCH

The International Journal of ESG and Sustainability Reporting welcomes a diverse range of paper types that contribute to the understanding and advancement of ESG and sustainability reporting. The following categories of submissions are encouraged:

  • Original Research Articles
  • Empirical studies presenting novel findings, methodologies, or theoretical advancements related to ESG and sustainability. These articles should provide rigorous analysis and contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge.
  • Review Articles
  • Comprehensive reviews that synthesize existing literature on specific ESG and sustainability topics. These papers should identify gaps in research, highlight emerging trends, and propose future research directions.
  • Case Studies
  • Detailed examinations of real-world applications of ESG practices and sustainability reporting. Case studies should illustrate best practices, challenges faced, and lessons learned, providing valuable insights for practitioners and researchers alike.
  • Methodological Papers
  • Contributions that focus on the development or refinement of methodologies used in ESG and sustainability research. This includes innovative tools for measurement, assessment frameworks, and reporting standards.
  • Policy Analysis
  • Papers that analyze the impact of policies and regulations on ESG practices and sustainability reporting. These submissions should explore the implications of policy frameworks at local, national, or international levels.
  • Thematic Essays
  • Shorter, opinion-based pieces that address current issues, debates, or innovations in the field of ESG and sustainability. These essays should provoke discussion and inspire further research or action.
  • Technical Reports
  • Reports detailing specific projects, assessments, or initiatives related to sustainability practices within organizations. These submissions may include quantitative data, findings, and recommendations.
  • Book Reviews
  • Critical reviews of recent publications in the fields of ESG, sustainability, and corporate governance. Book reviews should highlight the relevance and contribution of the work to the academic and practitioner communities.
  • Commentaries
  • Brief essays that provide insights or perspectives on recent developments, studies, or trends in ESG and sustainability reporting. Commentaries should encourage dialogue and reflect on the implications for research and practice.