A Mixed-Methods Framework for Environmental, Social, and Governance Analysis: Insights from Emerging Markets

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) dimensions have become critical parameters for assessing corporate sustainability and ethical responsibility. As organisations face increasing pressure to align their operations with global sustainability goals, the complexity of ESG issues demands innovative research approaches. This study explores the application of mixed-methods research (MMR) in ESG investigations, emphasizing its strengths in combining quantitative precision with qualitative depth. By gathering numerical data alongside contextual insights, MMR offers a robust framework for examining how ESG practices shape organisational performance. Drawing on case studies from emerging markets, this study illustrates how methodological triangulation helps navigate regulatory uncertainty, data gaps, and cultural variability. While quantitative analyses reveal patterns in profitability and governance, qualitative approaches provide a window into the stakeholder dynamics and organisational tensions underlying ESG outcomes. The findings highlight how mixed-methods research can be a tool that generates actionable insights that inform business policy and strategy. However, the study also highlights several challenges, including resource intensity, the need for interdisciplinary expertise, and the absence of standardized ESG metrics. These limitations underscore the importance of refining mixed-methods frameworks to maximize their potential in ESG research. This article contributes to the growing discourse on sustainability by offering practical recommendations for leveraging mixed methods to navigate the complexities of ESG integration.