Sustainable development goals reporting: evidence from listed manufacturing and service sector companies in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study aims to analyse the process of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of the listed manufacturing and service companies in Sri Lanka, identify the levels of SDG reporting, and identify the actions taken by those companies on SDG reporting in Sri Lanka. Twenty companies, ten from each sector, were selected based on market capitalisation. The research was launched under a qualitative research approach using secondary data. Data analysis includes descriptive analysis and qualitative analysis. Findings of the study revealed that only four manufacturing companies and nine services companies have targeted sustainable development goals and focused on SDG goals, company focus on SDGs does not change based on market capitalisation. All companies are implementing projects across the island, and necessary measures have been taken to meet the SDGs within the organisations. When considering the four manufacturing companies, all of them have made SDGs 6, 7. 12 and 13. When considering the nine service companies, all of them have made SDGs 3,4,6,7,8 and 9. Based on the study, recommendations include enhancing awareness and education on SDGs. Stakeholder engagement and collaboration, both within and beyond the industry, are recommended to foster a collective approach towards achieving SDGs.