Influence mechanism of digital technology on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibility fulfilment of construction enterprises from the perspective of sustainability

With the rapid development of information technology, the deep integration of digital technology and the real economy has emerged as a crucial driver in promoting the sustainable development of construction enterprises. This paper examines 68 construction enterprises from 2009 to 2021. The study employs a panel fixed regression model and explores how digital technology influences construction enterprises to fulfil environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities from a sustainability perspective. The key findings reveal that digital technology significantly promotes the fulfilment of ESG responsibility, with green innovation serving as a mediating mechanism. Furthermore, the study explores the moderating roles of government subsidies and industry competition, finding that government subsidies enhance the overall ESG performance. Industry competition positively moderates the promotion of green innovation through digital technology. This paper contributes academically by elucidating the intricate mechanisms through which digital technology influences ESG responsibility and provides practical guidance for construction enterprises seeking to achieve sustainable development through digital transformation.