The aim of this research is to present a sustainability reporting framework for the Iranian banking industry. The research was conducted using a mixed methods approach; in the qualitative phase, the main dimensions and components were identified using data-based theory and their validity was confirmed in the Delphi round. In the quantitative phase, the relative importance of the dimensions was determined using the interpretive ranking method. The findings showed that five dimensions of governance, social, environmental, economic, and compliance and risk are considered the main pillars of banks' sustainability reporting, of which the governance dimension has the greatest impact. The compliance and risk dimension indicates the bank's level of adherence to regulations, regulatory standards, and risk management mechanisms and plays a key role in promoting transparency and stakeholder trust. The final framework includes five dimensions, ten components, and fifty conceptual propositions and can provide a valid basis for policymaking, evaluation, and development of sustainability reporting in the banking sector.

Introduction

Sustainability reporting is increasingly recognized as a key tool for transparency and accountability beyond traditional financial reporting. Existing frameworks often face implementation challenges and may not address industry-specific needs. In the banking sector, effective sustainability reporting is critical due to its central role in capital allocation and reducing information asymmetry. Institutional gaps, high disclosure costs, and limited guidance hinder consistent reporting. Therefore, tailored reporting mechanisms are needed to enhance transparency, meet stakeholder expectations, and support sustainable investment decisions. This study explores these challenges and proposes a framework for improving sustainability disclosure in banks.

Literature Review

Sustainability originates from the broader concept of sustainable development, emphasizing the balance between current resource use and the needs of future generations. Initially focused on environmental aspects, sustainability reporting has expanded to include social and economic dimensions. Existing frameworks provide guidelines for non-financial reporting, yet they often lack balance across different sustainability indicators. Voluntary disclosure may lead to selective reporting, misrepresentation, and reduced transparency. Differences between industries further challenge the uniform application of these frameworks, particularly in sectors with unique operational characteristics. In banking, non-financial disclosures such as governance, risk management, and social performance are crucial due to the sector’s role in capital allocation. Institutional gaps and the absence of industry-specific standards hinder effective sustainability reporting in banks. Integrated reporting, which combines financial and non-financial information can improve transparency and stakeholder confidence. Tailored reporting frameworks are essential to address sector-specific challenges and enhance sustainability practices. This study focuses on examining the effectiveness and implementation of sustainability reporting in the banking industry.

Methodology

This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses to examine sustainability reporting in the banking industry. The qualitative phase utilizes grounded theory, with semi-structured interviews and three-stage coding to identify key sustainability reporting criteria. Thirteen experts, including academics, banking managers, and auditors, participated until theoretical saturation was reached. The Delphi technique was then applied to validate and achieve consensus on the identified criteria, linking qualitative insights to the quantitative phase. In the quantitative stage, thirty bank managers and board members completed structured rating and pairwise comparison surveys using fuzzy linguistic scales. These data were analyzed to rank and weight the main components of sustainability reporting. Overall, the methodology integrates grounded theory, Delphi validation, and fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making to develop a robust theoretical framework for banking sustainability reporting.

Result

This study develops a tailored sustainability reporting framework for the Iranian banking industry using an integrated mixed-methods approach that combines grounded theory, Delphi validation, and interpretive ranking analysis. Through fourteen expert interviews, five overarching categories, ten core components, and fifty-two thematic propositions were identified, forming the foundational structure of the proposed framework. The Delphi process subsequently validated fifty themes, thereby reinforcing the coherence, relevance, and reliability of the extracted conceptual model. These components span human-resource capabilities, competitive and governance-related practices, social responsibility commitments, intergenerational environmental stewardship, and professional ethical obligations. In the quantitative phase, senior banking managers evaluated the relative influence of the framework’s components through structured pairwise comparisons. Results revealed that governance disclosure practices constitute the most influential and central axis of the proposed sustainability reporting framework. This includes transparent reporting of board activities, executive appointment and tenure criteria, remuneration mechanisms, and governance performance indicators. Strengthening disclosure in this dimension enhances organizational legitimacy, reinforces stakeholder trust, and improves the transparency of banking operations. Overall, the study presents a comprehensive and sector-specific framework that serves as a strategic roadmap for regulators, policymakers, and banks seeking to institutionalize sustainability reporting practices aligned with industry needs.

Discussion

This study develops a framework for sustainability reporting in the Iranian banking sector, highlighting governance as a core dimension. Detailed disclosure of board activities, remuneration policies, and decision-making processes enhances stakeholder trust and supports informed decision-making. Historically, non-financial governance information was reported symbolically, limiting transparency and accountability. The findings indicate that improved disclosure practices can strengthen internal controls and demonstrate the independence of bank boards. Governance-focused sustainability reporting also differentiates banks from competitors by signaling higher responsibility toward social, economic, and environmental interests. Implementing structured monitoring mechanisms and annual evaluation checklists can incentivize broader voluntary disclosures. Overall, the study emphasizes that robust governance reporting is essential for enhancing stakeholder confidence and promoting sustainable banking practices.

Conclusion

The study confirms that tailored sustainability reporting frameworks are crucial for the banking sector. Enhanced governance disclosure enables banks to build trust, improve transparency, and support stakeholder decision-making. Regulatory adjustments and policy interventions are necessary to encourage comprehensive voluntary reporting. Proper implementation can strengthen banks’ competitive positions while contributing to overall sustainable development. Ultimately, banks that prioritize sustainability reporting play a key role in guiding society toward broader sustainable outcomes.