What is the primary goal of sustainability accounting?

The primary goal of sustainability accounting is to measure and report on sustainability impacts. This involves assessing an organization’s performance related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors and communicating this information to stakeholders. By focusing on sustainability impacts, organizations can provide transparency regarding their practices and effects on the environment and society, thereby fostering accountability and informed decision-making among stakeholders.

Measuring and reporting these impacts enables businesses to cultivate a deeper understanding of their sustainability practices, highlighting areas for improvement and informing strategies that contribute to long-term viability. Additionally, effective sustainability accounting can aid in aligning corporate strategies with global sustainability goals and addressing stakeholder concerns about social responsibility.

While enhancing corporate image and streamlining financial reporting may be beneficial outcomes of effective sustainability accounting practices, they are not the primary goal. Similarly, maximizing shareholder profits is more aligned with traditional financial accounting, which does not encompass the broader impact assessment essential in sustainability accounting.