Integrating ESG and Sustainability with Ethics into the Accounting Curriculum-Integrating ESG and Sustainability with Ethics into the Accounting Curriculum

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a webinar organized by the Public Interest Section, the focus was on integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and sustainability topics into the accounting curriculum, especially concerning ethics. The session began with Lucy Diallo from California State University, Fresno, discussing her successful methods for introducing ESG and sustainability within managerial and cost accounting courses. She highlighted the significant link between sustainability issues and attracting the younger workforce, particularly Gen Z. She presented various cases that promote sustainable thinking by involving students in hands-on, practical analyses of waste, resource management, and ethical considerations in decision-making.<br /><br />Kelly Ulto from Fordham University shared her experience with using a case study method for teaching ethics and ESG issues. She detailed a specific case about a cosmetics company facing a dilemma regarding sustainability commitments versus profitability. The case served as a platform for students to explore ethical reasoning, stakeholder impact, and decision-making processes. Kelly emphasized using the case method to encourage student engagement and facilitate understanding of ESG topics.<br /><br />Lynette Rayeski from King's College presented findings from a study on ESG integration into the accounting curriculum, highlighting that although many faculty members support teaching ESG, a structured department-wide integration is rare. The study identified challenges like overcrowded curricula and deficient faculty knowledge in ESG, suggesting the need for resources and training to promote effective integration.<br /><br />Overall, the webinar underscored the importance of incorporating ESG and ethics into accounting education, with emphasis on case studies and engaging teaching methods to prepare students for future professional challenges.

Keywords

ESG

sustainability

accounting curriculum

ethics

teaching methods

case study

Gen Z workforce

faculty support

resource management

student engagement