This systematic review aims to analyze the contributions of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to sustainable development by examining how businesses address critical global challenges such as zero hunger, health and well-being, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, sustainable cities, life on land, and peace and justice. Purpose: The study seeks to identify gaps in the existing literature and propose future research directions. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple bibliometric databases, yielding 2,520 studies. After applying stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, 100 relevant studies were selected for analysis. The review synthesized empirical and theoretical findings, focusing on the effectiveness of CSR initiatives and their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Results : The findings reveal that while CSR initiatives significantly contribute to addressing global challenges, there are critical gaps in their long-term sustainability and effectiveness, particularly in developing regions. The review highlights the importance of integrating stakeholder engagement, addressing systemic inequalities, and measuring the impact of CSR practices to enhance their effectiveness. Contributions: This study provides valuable insights into the role of CSR in fostering sustainable development, contributing to existing theories and offering practical applications for industry and policymakers. It identifies underexplored areas for future research, emphasizing the need for robust frameworks that ensure CSR initiatives are equitable, inclusive, and sustainable.
Emon et al. (2025) studied this question.