Climate change risk reporting in the annual reports 2006 of the European automobile industry

Author: Dr. Axel Hesse

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Summary

This survey analyses and evaluates the annual reports 2006 - audited by accountants - of major European automobile companies concerning appropriate reporting of climate change related risks and uncertainties. The reports were analysed with respect to whether they meet the requirements of the Directive 78/660/EEC and whether financial and non-financial key performance indicators relevant to particular businesses were included. 

The information provided by the annual reports was evaluated by the author with ratings from [1] (very useful for investors) to [6] (not useful at all for investors). 

The evaluation has shown that the information provided in the annual reports is not sufficient for analysts and investors to fully evaluate the financial and non-financial risks and opportunities caused by climate change impacts on the automobile industry sector. The results of the study indicate that German companies report worst regarding the performance indicator "fuel consumption", while PSA Peugeot Citroën and Renault received the best ratings in comparison.