"As more and more companies begin to devote serious attention to sustainability reporting, many different systems of rating the depth and effectiveness of sustainability efforts have arisen. The authors compare three leading sustainability rankings, examining their methodologies and results. Unfortunately, a lack of consistency and transparency from these rating agencies currently exists, impeding greater efficiency in the capital markets."

[COMMENTARY] The studies findings will not surprise most ethical investors. Nonetheless, it’s good to see such academic support for what we know.
Are Sustainability Rankings Consistent Across Ratings Agencies? By Beixin (Betsy) Lin, PhD, Silvia Romero, PhD, Agatha E. Jeffers, PhD, CPA, Laurence DeGaetano, CPA and Frank Aquilino, CPA, July 2017, The CPA Journal, USA.