Does Sustainability Reporting have Sustenance? A Marketing Ploy or Strategic Tool Teaching Tool

• In Event: Session C: Teaching, Learning & Curriculum III

Abstract

Abstract
Sustainability efforts encompass economic, social and environmental management. After decades of promoting such causes, sustainability finally has moved up to the boardroom agenda per PricewaterhouseCooper 2012 report. As companies incorporate sustainability into business strategy, it is crucial for accountants and financial managers to capture the financial implications of those sustainable practices. This case provides an in-depth review of current reporting and measurement of sustainable practices and outlines properties of a sustainable model. It highlights the crucial elements of the implementation process, which includes collecting relevant data, analyzing operational data, reporting in accounting and financial terms, incorporating sustainability when making strategic business decisions. Students will analyze reasons for corporations to provide sustainability reports, evaluate the relative contribution of sustainable practices that improve firm performance and examine limitations of current sustainability reporting practices. They are also advised to consider what enhancement in current reporting could increase the economic value of reporting efforts.

Authors

• Elizabeth C Rabe, Northeastern State University

• Julia S Kwok, Northeastern State University