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Sustainability accounting in action: Lights and shadows in the Italian context

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  • Passetti, Emilio
  • Cinquini, Lino
  • Marelli, Alessandro
  • Tenucci, Andrea

Abstract

This study analyses the use of eight tools for sustainability accounting and the aims of sustainability accounting in decision making. The data, collected through a survey and interviews, indicate that only a small set of experimenter firms use these tools while other firms appear to be more conservative. From a decision making perspective, sustainability accounting is closely associated with the monitoring of internal compliance and efficiency. Unfortunately, sustainability accounting is in a relatively early phase of development and the lack of engagement by most firms is negative for the construction of a more balanced relationship between business and environmental and social issues.

Suggested Citation

  • Passetti, Emilio & Cinquini, Lino & Marelli, Alessandro & Tenucci, Andrea, 2014. "Sustainability accounting in action: Lights and shadows in the Italian context," The British Accounting Review, Elsevier, vol. 46(3), pages 295-308.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:bracre:v:46:y:2014:i:3:p:295-308
    DOI: 10.1016/j.bar.2014.05.002
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