Mapping the contributions of smart buildings to ESG goals: A critical narrative review and socio-technical analysis

• Provides a comprehensive literature review mapping smart building technologies to ESG criteria using a structured socio-technical framework. • Socio-technical analysis bridges technical innovations (e.g., AI, BMS, digital twins) with social equity, data governance, and occupant well-being. • Emerging technologies and governance frameworks are critically assessed for their future potential and ethical implications in sustainable urban development. • Reviews alignment with ESG frameworks, LEED, BREEAM, WELL, and Fitwel certification systems. The built environment is at a critical crossroads, facing increasing pressure to reduce its significant environmental impact while maximizing its positive effects on human welfare and promoting greater social inclusion. Similarly, the growing globalization of digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and automation is transforming structures into complex, interconnected ‘smart’ systems. This article critically reviews the potential of smart buildings from an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) perspective. Shifting focus from a strictly techno-optimistic view, the analysis also employs the socio-technical systems approach to examine the complex interaction between technology, human agents, and organizational structure. In this article, the possibilities for smart buildings to bring about improvements within the E, S & G pillars, encompassing energy conservation and resource usage, as well as the health, safety, productivity, and inclusivity of occupants, will be explored. Additionally, the paper presents a multidimensional ESG framework, integrating smart technology data streams such as energy consumption, indoor air quality (IAQ), and system control data with established ESG reporting standards and building certifications. Based on an expanded examination of literature, the discussion demonstrates the potential of the reviewed technologies using concrete examples as well as comparative analysis. On the other hand, the paper also critically evaluates the significant challenges of technical integration, financial obstacles, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, data privacy and information protection issues, the risk of exacerbating social inequities, and the potential to widen existing social inequalities. The findings show that realizing the potential of ESG in smart buildings will mean not only technological adoption but also the complete deployment of solutions; a responsible, ethical, and managed approach is critically needed. Subsequent sections present strategic imperatives and concrete recommendations. The paper closes by defining strategic priorities and avenues for further research, focusing on pathways to socially responsible and effective digital transformation.