The creation of sustainable development: What it means to CFOs in New Zealand

Abstract

The world of business is increasingly being challenged by sustainability issues. Despite the benefits that accrue from business transactions such as technological and economic progress, business is facing increasing criticism for creating social and environmental problems. In the past, the full consequences of conducting business have not been fully reflected in the financial statements; moreover business has been able to measure their profit success by excluding any transactional costs from social and environmental aspects.

Research Purpose and Objectives The purpose of this research project is to evaluate and better understand the CFO’s role in sustainability reporting of New Zealand (NZ) publicly listed companies. To achieve this aim, the research has the following specific aims: - To construct an instrument to measure the extent and degree of sustainability reporting undertaken in NZ publicly listed companies - To examine and explore the reasons why CFO’s involve (or exclude) themselves in sustainability reporting issues - To indicate where CFOs believe the motivations for more sustainability reporting may come from. - To examine how CFOs become informed about sustainability