A study on the impact of corporate executives' green perceptions on carbon disclosure

Abstract

With the increasing stringency of carbon emission management and environmental information disclosure requirements, corporate executives' perceptions exert a crucial influence on the level of carbon information disclosure. This study utilizes empirical analysis based on data from A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen between 2008 and 2023 to investigate the mechanism by which executives' cognition influences carbon information disclosure levels. The findings reveal that executives' green cognition significantly improves carbon information disclosure levels. Mechanism analysis suggests that this influence is mainly exerted through mitigating managerial short-termism, fostering green innovation, and advancing digital transformation. The analysis of moderation effects demonstrates that greater corporate transparency and marketization levels strengthen the positive link between executives' green cognition and carbon information disclosure. Heterogeneity analysis suggests that executives' green cognition exerts a more significant influence on carbon information disclosure in eastern regions and technology-intensive firms. In summary, this research offers novel empirical insights into the influence of executives' cognition on corporate environmental behavior and provides policymakers with practical guidance for advancing green transition and carbon disclosure policies.