Pledged but Unmeasured: What ESG Budget Data Reveals About Corporate Climate Accountability
Corporate sustainability budgets have grown significantly over the past decade, yet measurable environmental outcomes frequently fail to keep pace with stated commitments. An analysis of ESG spending patterns and third-party audit data suggests that a substantial share of climate-related expenditures serves reputational functions rather than operational transformation. Understanding this gap is essential for stakeholders who rely on corporate disclosures to make informed decisions.