Analysis of the Role of National Culture in the Relationship between Performance and Environmental Disclosure

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the role of culture in the relationship between performance and the level of environmental disclosure. Theoretical framework: Hofstede's model was used with the cultural dimensions of power distance, individualism, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, long-term orientation and indulgence. Clarkson et. al. (2008) presents the basis for verifying the level of disclosure from a checklist of items present in the entities' sustainability reports. The proxy for environmental performance was defined in different ways by authors, the present study uses the Corporate Knights magazine’s Ranking Global 100, which lists the 100 most sustainable entities in the world. Method/design/approach: Ordinary least squares regression was used with stacked data collected for the years 2018 and 2019. Results and conclusion: The results found show a positive and significant relationship between disclosure and environmental performance only when cultural dimensions were included as mediators in the relationship, contrary to models that relate the two aspects directly or even with the inclusion of cultural dimensions as independent variables. It was found that the positive relationship decreases as a function of individualism and power distance levels and intensifies in countries with higher levels of masculinity. Research implications: The study contributes to the literature about the relationship between performance and environmental disclosure, adding a new perspective. Originality/Value: Provides evidence to standard-setters and regulators of the importance of considering cultural aspects when implementing or analyzing compliance with guidelines on the level of disclosure and environmental performance.