Natural resource dependence: understanding why companies (do not) disclose on biodiversity

Abstract

Biodiversity is the foundation of all life on earth and plays a critical role in solving grand challenges like climate change. Yet, corporate disclosure on biodiversity remains scarce. We develop a theoretical model to explain why companies (fail to) disclose on biodiversity, by applying and extending natural resource dependence theory. Our model shows that companies may omit to disclose on biodiversity when they perceive an operational or regulatory risk associated with dependence on biodiversity. By contrast, when companies view biodiversity as material or a reputational threat, they are more likely to engage in disclosure. In addition, materiality positively moderates the relationship between biodiversity risk and disclosure. We discuss ways in which the topic of biodiversity, in spite of its complexity, can be brought to the forefront of manager’s minds in order to place greater emphasis on biodiversity in corporate sustainability management.