Assessment of Environmental Disclosure Practices of Indian Corporate Sector Through Sustainable Development Goals

ABSTRACT This study assessed the contribution of Indian firms in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on the environmental dimension (SDG 12, 13, 14, and 15). We proposed an Environmental Disclosure Index (EDI) based on the UN SDGs to understand the reporting practices of Nifty 50 companies. Using content analysis, information was extracted from 150 disclosure reports, including 69 sustainability reports, 63 integrated annual reports, and 18 ESG reports covering 3 years (2019–20 to 2021–22). The results disclose an overall performance score of 53.28% with Infosys Ltd. emerging as the best performer (89%). Sector‐wise, ‘Chemical’ performed best, while ‘Finance’ is at the lowest. Firms reported maximum efforts along “climate action” and least effort under “life below water.” ANOVA results confirmed no significant difference at the firm level but significant variance across sectors. The study contributes a unique EDI, offering insights for stakeholders and implications for policymakers to strengthen sustainable practices.