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Do greenhouse gas emissions affect financial performance? – an empirical examination of Australian public firms

Wang, Lei; Li, Steven; Gao, Simon S

Authors

Lei Wang

Steven Li



Abstract

Previous studies that have attempted to relate corporate environmental performance to financial performance have generated conflicting results. This paper presents the findings of a study on the relationship between greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the financial performance of Australian corporations. Using multiple regression models and data from a sample of 69 Australian public companies, this paper finds a positive correlation between GHG emissions and corporate financial performance. By testing the statistical significance of GHG emission factors in determining company Tobin's q, this study finds that a stronger Tobin's q often correlates with higher GHG emissions across all industry sectors. This finding is contrary to evidence found in previous studies conducted in other countries. The positive correlation found in this study could be explained with reference to the unique economic structure and development of Australia, particularly its dominant mining industry.

Citation

Wang, L., Li, S., & Gao, S. S. (2013). Do greenhouse gas emissions affect financial performance? – an empirical examination of Australian public firms. Business Strategy and the Environment, https://doi.org/10.1002/bse.1790

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date 2013-09
Deposit Date Oct 1, 2013
Print ISSN 0964-4733
Electronic ISSN 1099-0836
Publisher Wiley
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
DOI https://doi.org/10.1002/bse.1790
Keywords Australian public firms; corporate social performance; environmental performance; financial performance; greenhouse gas emission; Tobin's q;
Public URL http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/id/eprint/6428
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/bse.1790