The impact of assurance on the quality of voluntary environmental disclosures: An empirical analysis

Yong Ting Aw
Robyn Moroney
Carolyn Windsor, Bond University

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Interim status: Citation only

Aw, Y. T., Moroney, R., & Windsor, C. (2009). The impact of assurance on the quality of voluntary environmental disclosures: An empirical analysis. Paper presented at the 2009 Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand (AFAANZ) conference, North Conway, NH, United States.

Access the conference website.

2009 HERDC submission. FoR code: 1501

© Copyright 2002-2008 Zakon Group LLC

Abstract

In response to investor and public concerns, companies are increasingly disclosing environmental information in a largely unregulated context. To engender greater credibility third parties are increasingly being hired to provide assurance of environmental reporting.

This study uses a stakeholder-agency theoretical perspective to examine whether the quality of voluntary environmental disclosures (GRI 2006) is improved when assured. Our sample comprised listed Australian companies disclosing environmental information in stand-alone reports, annual reports, and websites. Australia was chosen as the setting for this study as globally it has one of the highest rates of assured environmental reporting.

Results of this matched pairs study show that the quality of voluntary environmental disclosures is higher for assured companies than unassured companies. For assured companies, the quality is no different when assured by accountants or consultants. Additional analysis provides preliminary evidence that experience improves the quality of environmental disclosures.