Stakeholder Collaboration for Effective ESG Implementation for Forests: Applying the Resource-Based View and Delphi

In socio-ecological systems, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives play a critical role in enhancing forest multifunctionality, including climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. However, corporate integration and disclosure related to forests remain limited. Effective and sustainable ESG implementation for forests requires close collaboration among corporations, governments and NGOs. This study applied the resource-based view to identify the resources and capabilities of corporations, governments, and NGOs. The Delphi method was used to capture multi-sector expert opinions on the roles of governments and NGOs in supporting corporate forest-related ESG activities in the Republic of Korea. Through a three-round Delphi survey, consensus was achieved on 11 government roles and 14 NGO roles. The most frequently agreed-upon roles were related to technological and informational resources. Although these roles were linked to similar resource categories, government roles primarily encompassed macro-level and scientific functions, whereas NGO roles emphasized field-specific information and practical capabilities. To enhance the effectiveness of corporate ESG implementation through such collaboration, stakeholders must further develop both the quantity and quality of their resources and capabilities. Furthermore, an institutional structure that ensures balanced stakeholder participation is essential to minimize potential value conflicts.