Environmental Management Accounting in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Purpose: The major aim of this study is to assess the level of awareness, adoption, and implementation of EMA practices in Nigerian tertiary institutions, including universities, colleges, and polytechnics. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) is a method that integrates financial and environmental data to enhance decision-making processes, thereby enhancing environmental performance and cost reduction. The research employs a descriptive research approach, using a questionnaire as the primary data gathering tool. The population targeted selected tertiary institutions in Oyo State, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The data collected from the questionnaire was analyzed using SPSS, frequency distribution table, and hypothesis testing. Findings: The findings indicate a strong perception among respondents that tertiary institutions in Nigeria have a significant impact on the environment, with many admitting to contributing to environmental degradation. However, there are significant gaps in understanding and awareness, suggesting the need for a tailored approach to EMA implementation. Practical Implications: In Nigeria, tertiary institutions have significant environmental impacts due to their size, activities, and resource use. Implementing EMA in these institutions could help reduce these impacts while improving their financial performance. Management involvement plays a critical role in the adoption and implementation of EMA in Nigerian tertiary institutions, but there is a significant proportion of neutral or opposing views, indicating a clear understanding of the impact of management involvement on EMA implementation. Originality/Value: Nigerian tertiary institutions face challenges in managing their environmental impacts due to inadequate funding, lack of awareness, and insufficient regulatory frameworks. There is a lack of research on EMA in higher education institutions in Nigeria, indicating the need for further research. These studies have found that Nigerian universities have implemented various environmental management measures, but there is still much room for improvement.