Determinants of companies' environmental information disclosure in China

Abstract

Based on social-political theories, this study identifies the factors which would affect the level of environmental information report provided by Chinese companies. To evaluate the quality of corporate environmental information disclosure, the study develops a content analysis index based on Measures on Open Environmental Information, which was issued by the State Environmental Protection Administration in 2007, with a scoring method on the basis of Global Reporting Initiative sustainability reporting guidelines.

The sample comprised 154 Chinese companies listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange or the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2014. By applying the multiple regression analysis, this study finds that firm value and the adoption of certified environmental management system are positively significantly associated with the quality of environmental information reporting. Also, a good knowledge of environmental regulations and reporting guidelines, a well-built corporate environmental culture and values, and an existence of external assurance for environmental reporting, might help companies to improve the quality of their environmental information disclosure.

This study may be useful for the companies which are concerned with environmental issues and their public image, and the regulators in China who take action in ensuring the high quality of corporate environmental information as well as in the overall protection of the environment.