An analysis of water disclosure quantities: Evidence from agricultural companies in Indonesia

The significant reliance on water in Indonesia’s agricultural sector raises critical concerns regarding the transparency and accountability of corporate water management practices. Correspondingly, this study investigated the extent of water disclosure quantities by agricultural companies in Indonesia between 2016 and 2022. Using a purposive sampling technique, 118 analytical units were selected for examination. The research employed content analysis of sustainability and annual reports, guided by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework, to assess the breadth of water-related information disclosed, focusing on the number of disclosures rather than their quality or financial impacts. Two indices from previous studies were applied to comprehensively evaluate disclosure trends. The results reveal that most companies disclosed less than 50 % of the applicable water-related indicators, indicating limited transparency in water reporting practices. Bakrie Sumatera Plantations (UNSP) demonstrated the highest disclosure levels, particularly in categories such as water policy and water management. These findings suggest that while regulatory frameworks exist, companies often adopt minimal disclosure strategies, possibly to maintain legitimacy rather than demonstrate full accountability. This study contributes to the literature by distinguishing between the quantity and quality of disclosures and providing a structured, indicator-based framework for evaluating corporate transparency in water reporting. The study offers valuable insights for regulators, practitioners, and sustainability advocates aiming to strengthen water governance in resource-intensive sectors of emerging economies like Indonesia.