Alternative accounts, rivers and dams: the case of the Green Earth Volunteers’ river project

Zou, S. and Paisey, C. (2023) Alternative accounts, rivers and dams: the case of the Green Earth Volunteers’ river project. Accounting, Auditing and Accountability Journal, (doi: 10.1108/AAAJ-07-2019-4083) (Early Online Publication)

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the alternative accounts produced by Green Earth Volunteers (GEV), a Chinese environmental non-governmental organisation, over a 10-year period in the context of their campaign to create visibilities about hydroelectric dam projects along the Chang Jiang. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing on conceptions of the human–nature relationship, including those evident in ancient Chinese philosophy and mythology, and the Chinese way of viewing and resolving conflict, this paper offers an interpretive analysis of the alternative accounts of GEV in terms of their form and content. Findings: In terms of their content, the alternative accounts reflect elements of interrelated thinking, being underpinned by a recognition of the relationship between humans and nature, which is evident in Confucianism, Taoism and ancient Chinese mythology. The strategies adopted by GEV are a non-confrontational but feasible way to promote their ecological beliefs in the Chinese context. Practical implications: The study suggests that social and environmental accounting (SEA) in developing countries is steeped in local cultural and philosophical traditions that need to be considered and incorporated into the design of alternative accounts. Originality/value: The study contributes to the very limited literature that offers qualitative analyses of SEA in developing countries.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Early Online Publication
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Paisey, Professor Catriona and Zou, Dr Sisi
• Authors: Zou, S., and Paisey, C.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School; College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Accounting and Finance
• Journal Name: Accounting, Auditing and Accountability Journal
• Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• ISSN: 0951-3574
• ISSN (Online): 1758-4205
• Published Online: 18 October 2023