Against the backdrop of divergent policy frameworks and educational readiness, this study examines the relationship between innovation capacity and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) regulatory maturity in the four largest economies of Latin America: Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Argentina. Using a mixed-methods comparative design, the study analyzes research and development (R&D) intensity, renewable energy use, innovation rankings, and ESG mandates. The study also assesses the presence of ESG-related competencies in engineering curricula and the extent to which sustainability principles are embedded in educational frameworks. The results show that innovation investment and institutional strength significantly predict ESG maturity. Brazil and Chile outperform their peers in regulatory implementation and educational alignment. Argentina lags behind in both innovation and ESG advancement. Engineering programs remain weakly aligned with ESG demands, except in Chile. These results underscore the necessity of integrating educational reform with national innovation and sustainability strategies to hasten the regional shift toward sustainable development.
