Journal of the Architectural Institute of Korea (대한건축학회논문집)

Architectural Institute of Korea (대한건축학회)
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What quantitative indicators do construction companies use to manage ESG? - A case study in South Korea -

건설업 ESG 정량 지표 추출 및 사용 추세 분석 - 국내 9개 종합건설사를 대상으로 -

  • Seo, Wonkyoung (Dept. of Architectural Engineering, University of Seoul) ;
  • Kim, Moo-Bin (Dept. of Architecture and Architectural Engineering, Yonsei University) ;
  • Kang, Youngcheol (Dept. of Architecture and Architectural Engineering, Yonsei University)
  • Received : 2024.02.26
  • Accepted : 2024.06.18
  • Published : 2024.07.30
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Abstract

This study aims to identify the quantitative indicators construction companies use for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and to investigate their trends. ESG implementation in the construction industry is crucial due to its significant impact on the labor market and environment. However, challenges such as high accident rates and substantial industrial waste generation hinder full ESG integration. The diversity of ESG scores and criteria also slows adoption in the industry. To evaluate the current state of ESG management, this study reviewed ESG reports from the past 10 years of nine general contractor companies in South Korea, identifying 28 common quantitative indicators: 10 Environmental, 13 Social, and 5 Governance. Time series analysis revealed an increasing number of companies using these indicators, with progressive improvements in the values of E, S, and G indicators, reflecting better fulfillment of social responsibilities. These findings can aid ESG management, particularly for small and medium-sized companies lacking resources for ESG implementation. Additionally, by presenting trends over time, this study offers guidance on which indicators should be reinforced for improved ESG performance in the construction industry.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

이 연구는 2021년도 한국연구재단 연구비 지원에 의한 결과의 일부임. 과제번호: NRF-2021R1F1A1050519

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