Which of the following best describes the purpose of sustainability reporting?

The purpose of sustainability reporting is best captured by the focus on disclosing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and progress. This type of reporting provides stakeholders, including investors, customers, and the community, with a transparent view of a company’s commitment to sustainability and how it is measuring success in these areas. It serves as a comprehensive tool to communicate how a company is addressing its impact on the environment, its relationships with social stakeholders, and its governance practices.

By detailing both goals and progress, sustainability reporting allows organizations to demonstrate accountability and promote trust with their stakeholders. It helps in assessing not only financial implications but also the broader societal impacts of business operations, making it a central component of responsible business practices and a critical factor for investors interested in sustainable practices.

In contrast, focusing on financial performance alone misses out on the broader impacts that businesses have. Engaging in public relations is a secondary outcome of good reporting rather than its main purpose and enhancing internal management practices, while beneficial, is not as comprehensive as the overarching goal of disclosing ESG issues. Thus, option C encompasses the essential aim of sustainability reporting effectively.