MODEL OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES: SYNERGY OF CIRCULARITY, ESG STANDARDS AND SOCIAL PARTNERSHIP

Abstract

Introduction. In the context of aggravating climatic, social and institutional challenges, there is a growing need to rethink strategic models for the development of agribusiness. The integration of sustainable development principles into the production and management practices of agricultural enterprises is becoming particularly relevant. In this context, the circular economy, ESG-oriented standards and social partnership are considered key components of a new generation of business models that can ensure economic efficiency, environmental responsibility and social sustainability of the agricultural sector. Purpose. The purpose of the article is to conceptually substantiate a model for sustainable development of agribusiness based on a combination of circular economic instruments, ESG standards and social partnership. Methods. To achieve the set goal, a comparative analysis of scientific approaches to the interpretation of the concepts of ESG, circular economy and social partnership; methods of systemic generalization, classification and structural and functional modeling were used. Based on the conducted GAP analysis, gaps were identified between the current state of implementation of the relevant elements in the practice of agricultural enterprises and reference requirements. Results. As a result of the study, a three-component integrated model of sustainable development of agribusiness ESG–CE–SP was proposed, which covers: institutional and regulatory level (adaptation to the Green Deal, Farm to Fork Strategy, ESG reporting principles); corporate and management level (implementation of circular practices in strategic and operational management); operational and technological level (waste, energy efficiency, logistics, resource isolation). Generalized characteristics of each of the approaches are presented – focuses, indicators, examples of application. Key barriers to the implementation of the model in the Ukrainian agricultural sector are identified, in particular: regulatory fragmentation, weak institutionalization of partnerships, lack of unified reporting standards. Conclusion. The research conducted confirms that an effective model of sustainable development of an agricultural enterprise should be based on a comprehensive combination of the principles of circularity, environmental responsibility and social interaction. The proposed ESG–CE–SP model creates a methodological basis for the formation of a new architectonics of an agricultural business strategy that meets the challenges of modernity and international standards.