Ecological Taxation as an Instrument for Implementing ESG Policies in the Context of Sustainable Development

The article examines ecological taxation as an instrument for State regulation of sustainable development in the context of implementing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. The article analyzes the increased role of fiscal mechanisms in response to contemporary climate challenges that require a transformation of tax policy towards greening. The author highlights the necessity of integrating environmental, social, and economic factors into the development of tax strategies aimed at promoting environmentally responsible behavior among economic agents. The research covers international experience in the implementation of carbon taxes, fiscal incentives for green investments, tax credits, and preferences that support the execution of corporate ESG strategies. Examples from the European Union, Canada, Singapore, Chile, and Africa are examined, enabling the identification of common approaches to implementing tax innovations and assessing their efficiency in achieving environmental and social goals. The article also highlights the social aspects of ecological taxation, particularly the risks of regressive impacts on low-income households and the importance of compensatory mechanisms, such as climate dividends. Significant attention is given to the institutional conditions for implementing tax changes, particularly the quality of administration, digital infrastructure, transparency in the distribution of revenues, and communication with the public. The article covers various directions of ecological taxation application, including its link to the green transformation of energy, the development of low-carbon technologies, and the modernization of industry. The need for coordination of tax, climate, and social policies is emphasized in order to ensure an effective and fair transition to a sustainable economy.