Linking sustainability reporting and energy use through global reporting initiative standards and sustainable development goals

Abstract This paper addresses the critical need for an integrated approach to sustainability reporting by examining the transition from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles within the automotive industry. By focusing on the top 8 highest-revenue global automakers in 2022, the study utilizes the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to assess contributions to SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) and other pertinent indicators. A comprehensive content analysis and logistic regression analysis are employed to explore the correlation between energy use and compliance with GRI standards from 2018 to 2022. The findings reveal significant trends in sustainability reporting, with a noted decrease in quality in the final year analyzed. Specifically, GRI 302-3 (energy intensity) shows a significant negative relationship with energy consumption, indicating higher energy usage correlates with lower compliance. The study reinforces the necessity for more transparent and effective sustainability reporting frameworks to enhance corporate practices and drive progress toward sustainability goals. Graphical abstract