Control of enterprise costs in the context of achieving sustainable development goals

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to substantiate the theoretical and methodological principles of enterprise cost control in the context of achieving sustainable development goals, as well as to identify areas for its improvement, taking into account the integration of economic, environmental, and social aspects of activity. Methods. In the research process, general scientific and special methods of cognition were used, in particular: analysis and synthesis – to generalize scientific approaches to cost control; comparison – to identify differences between traditional and modern approaches; a systematic approach – to justify the need to integrate ESG factors; logical generalization – to form conclusions and proposals. Results. The article establishes that traditional approaches to enterprise cost control do not provide for proper consideration of environmental and social components of activity. The need to transform the cost control system based on the integration of ESG approaches and the use of non-financial indicators is substantiated. The main problems are identified, including the fragmentation of scientific approaches, insufficient integration of financial and non-financial information, and the limitations of practical cost control tools in the context of sustainable development. A system of basic indicators is proposed to control sustainable development spending. Conclusions. It is proven that increasing the efficiency of enterprise cost control is possible provided that an integrated system is formed that combines financial and non-financial indicators, as well as takes into account the environmental and social consequences of activities. Directions for improving cost control are proposed, including adapting international ESG approaches to the specific conditions of enterprise activity, digitalizing accounting and analytical processes, and developing an internal audit function.