Abstract
<jats:p>The article explores the evolution of the conceptual framework of sustainable development, tracing its origins from the classical definition introduced in the Our Common Future report (1987) to contemporary, practice-oriented frameworks such as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Triple Bottom Line (TBL), as well as emerging models including the green economy, circular economy, and carbon-free economy. The study systematically analyzes and semantically structures key terms such as sustainable development, sustainability, ESG, CSR, and TBL, constructing a hierarchical and interrelated model that reflects the multilevel nature of sustainability concepts. Utilizing data from Google Books Ngram Viewer and Dimensions, the paper examines the dynamics of the frequency and evolution of these terms in academic literature over recent decades, revealing a clear shift from abstract theoretical discussions of “sustainable development” toward operationalized, measurable, and implementable frameworks such as “sustainability” and “ESG.” This trend illustrates the increasing practical orientation of sustainability research, where concepts are not only theoretical but also instrumental in guiding corporate policies, strategies, and reporting practices. Sustainability emerges as a broad umbrella concept encompassing balanced long-term economic, social, and environmental development, while ESG and CSR function as structured tools for assessment, benchmarking, and the implementation of responsible business practices. Moreover, the study emphasizes the interconnections between sustainability-oriented economic models – including green, circular, and carbon-free economies – which collectively form a comprehensive ecological and economic paradigm targeting climate neutrality, resource efficiency, and systemic transformation. The proposed semantic framework highlights the hierarchical transition from global-level concepts to regional, sectoral, and organizational dimensions, providing a coherent conceptual apparatus for understanding and operationalizing sustainability. The findings have practical implications for academic research, curriculum development, corporate strategy formulation, and policy-making, offering guidance for sustainable enterprise transformation and the integration of environmental, social, and governance considerations into strategic management practices.</jats:p>