The global economic landscape is currently undergoing a fundamental shift, moving away from a singular focus on financial profitability toward a more holistic integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. This research article explores the critical role of non-financial reporting, integrated management systems, and environmental accounting in fostering resilience and sustainable growth. By synthesizing contemporary research on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the specific operational challenges of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and rural territorial communities, the study identifies a structural gap in current management accounting practices. The article investigates the rationale for sustainable management principles in rural settings and the necessity of integrated reporting to ensure a balanced system of indicators. Furthermore, it examines the impact of global shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on financial markets and the real economy, emphasizing how these events necessitate improved accounting for provisions and assets. Through an extensive theoretical elaboration, the research discusses the stakeholder identity orientation in family firms, the internalization of environmental standards like ISO 14001, and the strategic use of retrenchment strategies during insolvency. The study argues that environmental accounting is not merely a compliance burden but a strategic tool that, when coupled with robust management control systems, can drive institutional longevity. The findings suggest that the integration of non-financial metrics is particularly vital for agricultural enterprises and hospitality SMEs in developing economies, where traditional financial reporting fails to capture the full spectrum of value creation and environmental impact.

Integrated Reporting, Sustainable Development, Environmental Accounting, Small and Medium

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