Sustainability reporting basics

1. Based upon the most commonly referenced definition of sustainability by the Brundtland Commission, what key aspects are critical to the considerations of the development of an equitable future? 2. The concept of triple-bottom-line reporting includes the evaluation of what types of performance? 3. In addition to the three performance measures within triple-bottom-line reporting, quadruple-bottom-line (QBL) reporting also includes reporting on a company’s purpose, which can be represented in a variety of ways. Identify two ways that a company might share its purpose in the context of QBL. 4. Explain the concept of integrated reporting and why it is in demand by stakeholders. 5. The SEC currently requires formal and complete disclosure of a company’s performance, including environmental, social and governance risks. a. a. True b. False 6. To address the social side of sustainability, the Dodd-Frank Act contains several specialized disclosure provisions with implementation and oversight expected by the SEC. Identify one of these provisions. 7. Stakeholders of sustainability reporting include a much broader spectrum than shareholders relative to financial reporting. Identify at least four different types of stakeholders that would associate value with sustainability reporting. 8. Which of the following is not a manner in which stakeholder value can be generated relative to sustainability initiatives and reporting on sustainability: a. Risk management b. Brand enhancement c. Employee turnover d. Revenue enhancement e. Cost containment 9. Identify at least two trends in corporate sustainability reported by Ernst & Young based on the survey conducted in the fall of 2011 with Greenbiz Group. 10. The role of the professional accountant continues to evolve and is impacted by the increased focus on sustainability reporting. Which of the following roles within professional accounting is not expected to be impacted by an increased focus on sustainability? a. General accounting b. Reporting c. Cost accounting d. Tax e. Audit (internal and external) f. None of the above