Publications
Publications

ESG: Hyperboles and Reality

By: George Serafeim
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
ShareBar

Abstract

ESG has rapidly become a household name leading to both confusion about what it means and creating unrealistic expectations about its effects. In this paper, I draw on more than a decade of research to dispel several myths about ESG and provide answers to important questions around theories of influence, the relation between ESG and corporate value, and the usefulness of ESG assessments and ratings.

Keywords

ESG; ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Performance; ESG Disclosure; ESG Reporting; ESG Ratings; Sustainability; Corporate Social Responsibility and Impact; Environmental Sustainability; Performance; Corporate Disclosure; Reports

Citation

Serafeim, George. "ESG: Hyperboles and Reality." Harvard Business School Working Paper, No. 22-031, November 2021.

About The Author

George Serafeim

Accounting and Management
More Publications

More from the Author