Impact of Corporate Sustainability Reporting on Public Awareness and Policy Change

Abstract

This study examines the impact of corporate sustainability reporting (CSR) on public awareness and subsequent policy changes. In recent years, the increasing significance of sustainability in corporate strategies has prompted organizations to disclose their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of survey data with qualitative interviews to explore how transparency in sustainability reporting influences public perceptions and governmental policy frameworks. The findings reveal that enhanced corporate transparency fosters greater public awareness regarding sustainability issues, which, in turn, exerts pressure on policymakers to enact more robust environmental regulations. Through case studies of leading corporations recognized for their CSR practices, the study illustrates a positive correlation between the quality of sustainability reporting and increased public engagement. Furthermore, the analysis highlights how informed citizens advocate for policy changes that promote sustainable practices, reflecting a shift towards greater accountability and ethical governance in the corporate sector. The implications of these findings suggest that corporations have a crucial role in shaping public discourse and influencing legislative agendas through effective sustainability reporting. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the interplay between corporate behavior, public awareness, and policy development, underscoring the importance of transparency in achieving sustainable outcomes.