Corporate Accountability Towards Species Extinction Protection: Insights from Ecologically Forward-Thinking Companies

This paper contributes to biodiversity and species extinction literature by examining the relationship between corporate accountability in terms of species protection and factors affecting such accountability from forward-thinking companies. We use triangulation of theories, namely deep ecology, legitimacy, and we introduce a new perspective to the stakeholder theory that considers species as a 'stakeholder'. Using Poisson pseudo-maximum likelihood (PPML) regression, we examine a sample of 200 Fortune Global companies over 3 years. Our results indicate significant positive relations between ecologically conscious companies that are accountable for the protection of biodiversity and species extinction and external assurance, environmental performance, partnerships with socially responsible organizations and awards for sustainable activities. Our empirical results appear to be robust in controlling for possible endogeneities. Our findings contribute to the discussion on the concern of species loss and habitat destruction in the context of corporate accountability, especially in responding to the sixth mass extinction event and COVID-19 crisis. Our results can also guide the policymakers and stakeholders of the financial market in better decision making.

Automated summary

This study contributes to the literature by examining the relationship between corporate accountability in species protection and factors affecting such accountability. Results show positive relations between ecologically conscious companies and external assurance, environmental performance, partnerships with socially responsible organizations, and awards for sustainable activities. The findings are robust and can guide policymakers and stakeholders in making better decisions in responding to environmental challenges.