PRÁTICAS ESG EM COOPERATIVAS DE CRÉDITO: O CASO DO PROJETO MULHERES COOPERADAS NA CRESOL ESSÊNCIA

This article analyzes how credit unions, with a focus on Cresol, promote sustainable development by adopting ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices. The research used a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on a literature review of recent studies and the analysis of institutional data on Cresol's social programs. Among the main results, the positive impact of initiatives such as the "Mulheres Cooperadas" program stands out, which has already benefited more than 150 female farmers, promoting empowerment, self-esteem, and self-knowledge for rural producers. The study also reveals how cooperative principles, aligned with ESG practices, strengthen local economies, expand financial inclusion, and foster social development. These findings corroborate contemporary literature, such as the studies by Pérez-Alemán (2022) and Rücker et al. (2023), which highlight the central role of cooperatives in transforming communities. It is concluded that Cresol exemplifies how cooperatives can integrate ESG into their governance and social projects, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient economic model, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.