Which of the following is NOT a key principle of sustainability accounting?

Profit maximization is not a key principle of sustainability accounting because sustainability accounting focuses on long-term value creation that balances economic, environmental, and social factors rather than solely prioritizing short-term financial gain. Traditional accounting often emphasizes profit maximization, but sustainability accounting shifts the focus to a broader understanding of value—one that considers the impacts of business operations on stakeholders and the environment.

The principles of transparency, accountability, and stakeholder inclusiveness are fundamental to sustainability accounting. Transparency ensures that organizations disclose relevant information about their sustainability practices and impacts, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions. Accountability involves taking responsibility for those impacts, encouraging organizations to adhere to ethical standards and regulatory requirements. Stakeholder inclusiveness emphasizes the need to engage and consider the interests of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and investors, in decision-making processes related to sustainability. These principles together foster a holistic and responsible approach to business sustainability, which contradicts the sole focus on maximizing profits.