Perceptions of corporate social and environmental accounting and reporting practices from accountants in Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to elicit accountants' perceptions regarding corporate social and environmental accounting and reporting practices in a developing country such as Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) were surveyed to determine their perceptions on issues pertaining to social and environmental accounting and reporting practices in Bangladesh.

Findings

Whilst the findings show that accountants have positive attitudes toward corporate social and environmental accounting, progress is limited, with the absence of ICAB in making any noticeable effort to develop such practices.

Research implications

Unlike prior studies, the implications of this study suggest that without international influence, it is less likely that institutional forces in Bangladesh (ICAB and the government) would be effective in dealing with social and environmental accounting and reporting issues.

Originality/value

While prior studies advocate proactive roles of the accounting profession, this study argues that proactive roles are less likely to prevail in the context of Bangladesh without direct intervention from institutional and regulatory authorities in the international arena.

Citation

Islam, M. and Dellaportas, S. (2011), "Perceptions of corporate social and environmental accounting and reporting practices from accountants in Bangladesh", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 7 No. 4, pp. 649-664. https://doi.org/10.1108/17471111111175191