The plenary session "ESG and Accounting: My Thoughts" presented by Dhananjay Nanda at ASW 2023 delves into the critical role that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors play in modern accounting practices. As Vice Dean of Faculty and Research at Miami Herbert Business School, Nanda offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of accounting and ESG, focusing on how companies can leverage ESG data to enhance transparency, accountability, and performance.

In the session, Nanda highlights the evolving importance of ESG reporting in corporate financial decision-making, particularly in areas such as managerial incentives and performance evaluation. With decades of research and teaching experience at prestigious institutions like Duke University and the University of Michigan, Nanda shares his insights into the challenges and opportunities ESG presents for accountants, boards, and managers.

The discussion also covers how ESG metrics are increasingly used to evaluate managerial effectiveness, corporate disclosure, and performance. Nanda’s research emphasizes the crucial role of accounting in ensuring that ESG factors are accurately assessed and incorporated into business strategies, affecting both public and non-profit organizations.

By integrating ESG into accounting, companies can make informed decisions that align financial outcomes with societal and environmental goals. The session underscores the growing need for accountants to develop ESG expertise as it becomes a key factor in shaping the future of corporate governance and financial reporting.

Learn more about the importance of ESG in accounting through the Notre Dame Business School's offerings:
https://mendoza.nd.edu/