The impact of environmental management accounting on environmental and financial performance: empirical evidence from Bangladesh

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the impact of environmental management accounting (EMA) on manufacturing companies’ environmental and financial performance in Bangladesh. Thus, this research recognizes essential factors such as EMA, environmental performance (EP), financial performance (FP), environmental information systems (EIS), knowledge management (KM), green innovation and energy efficiency (EE).Design/methodology/approachThis research uses a quantitative approach and uses 323 responses from the manufacturing firms. This research tests the study model through the “Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling” (PLS-SEM) technique using Smart PLS v3.3 software. This research uses AMOS v24 and 40% sample consideration to check the robustness. The study passes various model fit measures, i.e. reliability, validity, factor analysis and goodness of fit.FindingsThe research finds that EMA is positively and significantly associated with EP and FP. The study also finds a substantial relationship between recognized factors with EMA and EP. This research connects the stakeholder theory and institutional theory to the EMA model and shows the pressures from stakeholders and institutions reassuring the manufacturing firms to implement EMA. This research evidences that EMA enhances EP and FP.Originality/valueThe policymakers, regulators and government can consider these findings to formulate policy regarding companies’ EP and FP. Particularly, company executives can focus on KM, EIS, green innovation and EE factors for EP and FP.