Books

Businesses are under pressure to document their commitment to social responsibility. To meet their obligation, companies are producing reams of data on how they are addressing environmental challenges, social issues, climate resiliency, governance matters, and regulatory compliance. This data must be reported to stakeholders transparently in a clear, consistent manner using comparable metrics aligned with recognized frameworks. As the demand for this type of reporting grows, so will the need for professionals who have the requisite skills to produce competent, intelligible, and user-friendly sustainability reports.

Preparing business students and professionals with this specialized knowledge is the inspiration behind Sustainability Reporting and Disclosures, a forthcoming textbook to be published by McGraw Hill, that is co-authored by Gabelli School faculty members Barbara Porco, Ph.D., associate dean of graduate studies and clinical professor of accounting; Timothy Hedley, Ph.D., executive-in-residence and adjunct professor; and Steven Mintz, Ph.D., adjunct professor.

“The textbook has been created to assist faculty in teaching a dynamic, complex, and challenging subject,” Porco said. “Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the accounting and finance fields to gain a deeper understanding of the topic of sustainability disclosure, which is relatively new in relation to financial reporting.”

The authors provide an organized framework, or primer, encompassing the theory and practice of sustainability reporting and disclosures. This includes analyzing companies’ aspirations to be both profitable and socially responsible, as well as gaining insights into preparing for and managing increased risks. “The perspective of this textbook is focused not on short-term capitalism, but rather on long-term value creation,” Porco added.

A key feature that distinguishes this book from other resources is the deep dive the authors take on the fundamentals of sustainability. They then investigate the different frameworks, reporting standards, and guidance available to companies. An examination of how companies internalize these issues and assess costs and benefits provides fresh perspectives. Concerns relevant to stakeholders, including investors, customers, and employees, are thoughtfully explored. A separate chapter is dedicated to the impact of these decisions on an international basis.

“U.S. companies operating globally face increasing pressure to align their sustainability reporting with international standards like GRI, ISSB, and the EU’s CSRD. Adopting consistent ESG disclosures enhances transparency, meets regulatory requirements, and improves investor confidence while addressing global sustainability challenges,” Hedley noted.

The authors focus on the ways in which companies have implemented these practices and cover internal controls of sustainability reporting and disclosure extensively. Every chapter includes real-life examples and case studies and concludes with activity-based exercises.

The text was designed as an accessible, authoritative resource for diverse audiences. Instructors—even those without expertise in this subject area—will find the information easily adaptable to classroom lessons. Students will hone their skills for reading and understanding disclosure statements and professionals will learn how to interpret and assess critical data and enhance their employee value.

The textbook will be available in spring 2026 for fall 2026 adoption, Porco added. Ongoing updates will be made in real-time in an online version. “It’s imperative that you have an understanding of the metrics, data, and trends that are outside the standard reporting of financial statements,” Hedley said. “The bottom line is that you have to report back to your stakeholders what you’ve done with the stewardship of their resources.”