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This study investigates the influence of the knowledge endowment of directors on the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance in the banking industry. Applying the generalized method of moments (GMM) two‐step analysis, we analyzed a sample of 115 banks listed in Europe between 2014 and 2022. Building on the Resource Based View and Resource Dependence Theory, we find empirical evidence that board knowledge in terms of cultural, industrial, and financial background affects ESG performance in the banking industry, providing several contributions to the extant knowledge management and corporate governance literature. The research is intended to stimulate the development of practical knowledge management strategies inside companies to improve directors' decision‐making toward corporate social responsibility‐oriented initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work tackles from an empirical perspective the widely debated relationship between sustainability in business practices and profitability, focusing on a sample of listed European firms. To measure the extent of sustainable practices at the firm level, the Comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) score is proposed. The indicator, computed using the Mazziotta‐Pareto method, combines qualitative ratings on adherence to ESG standards with quantitative observations on the extent of data disclosure. Firms failing to pursue full disclosure are penalized. Focusing on the constituents of the Euro Stoxx 300 index, a dynamic panel model is implemented, where profitability is explained by the indicator. The results show that sustainability in business practices reduces profitability. These findings are in line with a strand of literature that highlights the role of strategic disclosure of ESG information on part of firms. Strategic disclosure occurs as a combination of greenwashing and social washing, with firms overstating the extent of their positive behaviors. The integration of sustainable practices within successful business models thus remains a relevant societal problem. The current EU policy framework is discussed in line with our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on urban gardens as drivers of the ecological transition in Italy, emphasizing their role in promoting sustainable urbanism amidst challenges like intensive urbanization and climate change. Topics include the integration of urban gardens into municipal environmental strategies, their contribution to organic farming through empirical analysis across Italian regions from 2011 to 2019, and their broader impact on urban social fabric and ecological sustainability.