An Empirical Study on Biodiversity Disclosure and Firm’s Market Value in North America Based on Linear Regression Model

Abstract

Biodiversity loss is a pressing global risk poised to significantly impact the corporate landscape over the next decade. As companies face escalating demands for transparency, non-financial disclosures, especially those concerning ESG factors, have garnered considerable attention. However, there is a notable deficiency in disclosures specifically highlighting biodiversity, an oversight this paper aims to address. Employing an empirical approach, this study scrutinizes the influence of biodiversity disclosure on corporate market value, focusing on a U.S. firm sample. This paper uncover a robust positive relationship between the level of biodiversity disclosure and a firm's market valuation. This correlation underscores the growing investor and stakeholder interest in corporate biodiversity initiatives. This analysis further reveals that the market value impact of biodiversity disclosure is not uniform. It varies with corporate size and industry characteristics, with small-sized and high-pollution firms experiencing a more substantial effect. This variability suggests that the market rewards smaller and more environmentally impactful companies for their transparency and commitment to biodiversity conservation. Drawing on Signaling Theory, Legitimacy Theory, and Stakeholder Theory, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the motivations behind biodiversity disclosure and its tangible market impact. It highlights the strategic significance of integrating biodiversity considerations into corporate communications and underscores the need for further research into the nexus between ecological stewardship and financial success. The findings advocate for a proactive corporate approach to biodiversity, aligning with the growing market demand for environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices.