Performance Evaluation of Non-Ferrous Metal Enterprises under ESG Perspective

As China’s economy transitions from rapid growth to high-quality development, green, low-carbon, and sustainable development has become an inevitable trend for enterprises. In this context, the ESG concept has emerged as a crucial pathway for companies to achieve sustainability. ESG requires that while pursuing economic benefits, companies must also consider their performance in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas. This study examines the performance development of non-ferrous metal enterprises, focusing on Zijin Mining Group. Using data from 2019 to 2023, the study employs the entropy weight method to systematically evaluate and analyze the company’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance. The aim is to comprehensively understand the company’s performance and challenges in environmental, social, and corporate governance while pursuing economic benefits. By identifying key areas for improvement, the study proposes targeted strategies to help Zijin Mining Group continuously optimize its overall performance and accelerate its transition to a green, high-quality, and sustainable development model. The study results show that, according to the company’s ESG reports over recent years, the richness of report content and the completeness of data disclosure have continuously improved, reflecting Zijin Mining’s commitment to placing sustainable development at the core of its strategy. Although Zijin Mining Group’s overall performance is improving annually, the company should still pay attention to the following measures: intensifying environmental protection efforts; actively fulfilling social obligations to improve its corporate image; and strengthening corporate governance mechanisms. Through these measures, the company can enhance its sustainable development capabilities and significantly improve its ESG performance, promoting long-term development and achieving sustainable goals. The study’s results provide practical guidelines for improving the corporate governance of Chinese non-ferrous metallurgical enterprises and other enterprise groups in the context of sustainable development.