Background of the Study
Sustainability accounting is an emerging field that integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into traditional financial accounting practices. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, sustainability accounting has the potential to enhance performance by improving resource management, reducing waste, and increasing transparency in operations (Ogunleye & Akintoye, 2024). In Delta State, SMEs, particularly in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, face growing pressure to adopt sustainability practices due to both local and international demand for sustainable products and operations.
However, despite the recognized importance of sustainability, many SMEs in Delta State struggle to implement effective sustainability accounting practices due to a lack of awareness, limited resources, and insufficient regulatory incentives. This study aims to investigate the role of sustainability accounting in improving SME performance in Delta State and to assess the benefits and challenges SMEs encounter in adopting sustainability practices (Alabi & Asogwa, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
SMEs in Delta State are increasingly confronted with the need to adopt sustainability accounting practices in response to environmental and social challenges. However, many of these businesses lack the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to implement effective sustainability accounting practices. This gap results in missed opportunities for performance improvement and long-term sustainability. This study seeks to explore the impact of sustainability accounting on SME performance in Delta State and identify strategies to promote its adoption.
Objectives of the Study
To examine the role of sustainability accounting in enhancing SME performance in Delta State.
To identify the barriers SMEs face in adopting sustainability accounting practices.
To propose strategies to encourage the adoption of sustainability accounting among SMEs in Delta State.
Research Questions
How does sustainability accounting contribute to SME performance in Delta State?
What barriers hinder the adoption of sustainability accounting practices among SMEs in Delta State?
What strategies can enhance the adoption of sustainability accounting in SMEs?
Research Hypotheses
H₀: Sustainability accounting does not significantly impact SME performance in Delta State.
H₀: Barriers to adopting sustainability accounting do not significantly affect SME performance.
H₀: Strategies to enhance sustainability accounting adoption do not significantly improve SME performance.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on small businesses in Delta State and their adoption of sustainability accounting practices. It excludes large enterprises and SMEs outside the state. Limitations include potential biases in participants’ reporting of sustainability practices and the variability of industry-specific sustainability needs.
Definitions of Terms
Sustainability Accounting: Accounting practices that integrate environmental, social, and governance factors into financial reporting.
SME Performance: The financial, operational, and environmental outcomes of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Delta State: A state in Nigeria known for its diverse SME landscape, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.
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