The number of U.S. companies reporting sustainability data has doubled since 2005, according to an analysis by KPMG. Of the top 100 U.S. companies (by revenue), 74 published corporate responsibility information in 2008 — up dramatically from the 37 that provided the same data in 2005, KPMG said.

Eighty percent of the Global Fortune 250 companies now release their corporate responsibility data, either as part of their annual financial report or through a separate document.

"With increasing evidence that conducting business responsibly contributes to shareholder value, it's not surprising that more U.S. companies are highlighting their corporate responsibility efforts," said Eric Israel, a managing director and sustainability services leader for the the U.S. audit, tax and advisory branch of KPMG International, in a press release. "More U.S. companies are beginning to see the link between profits and principles. Even in a difficult economy we expect this trend to continue, as enhanced transparency and disclosure on non-financial matters will likely grow in importance."

The KPMG International Survey on Corporate Responsibility Reporting is currently the most comprehensive review of environmental, social and governance disclosures conducted on an international scale.

Image — KPMG