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Climate risk perception, female directors and greenwashing

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  • Liu, Yuying

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of female directors on greenwashing and the influence of climate risk perception in China from 2012 to 2022. We find that female directors significantly inhibit greenwashing and climate risk perception improves this inhibitory effect. Further analysis suggests that female directors curb greenwashing by mitigating agency costs, alleviating financial constraints, and promoting information disclosure. The influence of female directors on greenwashing is more visible in highly competitive companies and in companies with low media attention. Our findings offer guidance for companies and policymakers to recognize the female power in addressing climate risk and improving corporate governance.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Yuying, 2024. "Climate risk perception, female directors and greenwashing," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 70(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:70:y:2024:i:c:s1544612324013205
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2024.106291
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