From ESG Commitment to Sustainable Construction Practices: Evidence from an Emerging European Market

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between ESG integration and sustainable construction practices in the Bulgarian construction sector. The analysis is based on 143 valid responses from representatives of construction companies operating in Bulgaria. The study employed descriptive statistics and comparative analysis based on enterprise size, as well as correlation and regression analysis. The average index for ESG integration is 3.44, and for sustainable construction practices, it is 3.40. Management commitment, social policies, safety, energy efficiency, and waste management are more developed. Reporting, circular practices, green certification, and carbon control remain less institutionalized. A positive correlation was found between the two indices (r = 0.615; 95% CI [0.501; 0.708]; p < 0.001). The results obtained do not allow for the establishment of a cause-and-effect relationship between the two.