When we consider taxes as not merely paying an obligation but as a contribution to a more equitable society, we have taken a giant step toward supporting environmental and social initiatives, encouraging responsible business practices, and driving innovation. This extraordinary book explores the intersection of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and taxation, offering a comprehensive perspective on how ESG can positively influence sustainable finance, tax compliance, transparency, and corporate responsibility.

Drawing not only on the historical significance of taxation in fostering progress but also on the Japanese concept of ikigai (sense of fulfilment) and the humanist psychology associated with Victor Frankl, the author’s strikingly original approach to tax law pulls together new perspectives on a variety of current global concerns around taxation, including the following:

• social pressure on investors;

  
  



• ethical supply chain;

  
  



• digital economy and fair share of taxes;

  
  



• profit shifting and the BEPS project;

  
  



• transfer pricing;

  
  



• the European Green Deal;

  
  



• extractive industries transparency initiative;

  
  



• tax effects of carbon credits;

  
  



• promise of ‘green hydrogen’; and

  
  



• executive compensation linked to ESG performance.

  
  

The analysis shows that when companies and tax professionals integrate ESG principles into their tax approach, they align their contributions with a broad commitment to positive change because they strengthen both their reputational capital and societal impact and clearly distance themselves from the common toxic practices so widely excoriated in the tax literature.

The analysis will also empower tax professionals with the tools, insights, and mindset to leverage tax policies as catalysts for sustainable development; tax as an instrument to impact behaviour. This book serves as a practical guide for corporate executives and policymakers who seek to understand how ESG-aligned tax practices affect public perception and stakeholder trust, and thus assist them in crafting strategies that enhance brand reputation and credibility and create a positive impact on civil society worldwide.