The expertise of accountants affects environmental accounting in the disclosure of environmental information by large businesses

Abstract

This study aims to: (1) examine opinions regarding accountants’ expertise in environmental accounting and environmental information disclosure; and (2) analyze the causal factors influencing the quality of environmental disclosure among large businesses. A quantitative research methodology was employed. Data were collected from 360 accountants working in companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and the Market for Alternative Investment (MAI) through a questionnaire developed based on an extensive literature review. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The research findings revealed that 1) accountants possess a high level of expertise, particularly in knowledge of sustainability reporting standards. However, their values ​​and ethics are the lowest compared to other areas. 2) Furthermore, the expertise of accountants directly and indirectly impacts environmental disclosure, with key mediating variables being environmental accounting, environmental management systems, and stakeholder participation. The research indicates that developing the capabilities of accountants, especially in ethics and the application of information technology, will enhance the quality of organizational environmental disclosure. Organizations should prioritize developing training programs and supporting the use of environmental information systems to ensure reporting meets international standards and responds to ever-changing sustainability requirements.