(Non) coverage of sustainability within the French professional accounting education program

Purpose This study seeks to identify how professional accountants in France are educated in sustainability; we examine the French accounting programs in regard to sustainability accounting education recommendations. Design/methodology/approach We analyze a variety of documents to ascertain what comprises the typical accounting education program in France. Additionally, we conduct five interviews of various stakeholders to understand the importance of sustainability accounting and education in the French context. Findings We note an interesting paradox in the French context: while the government requires the reporting and auditing of corporate sustainability information, we find that sustainability is not greatly present in the government-funded French accounting education program. We determine that the government's power in setting the education agenda combined with its budget restrictions and ability to defer responsibility to other parties has resulted in this paradox in the French setting. Practical implications This research draws attention to the consequences of society ignoring sustainability education for professional accountants. Social implications This paper contributes to the discussion on how to educate responsible professional accountants and the implications for the planet if accountants are not trained in sustainability. Originality/value This research contributes to the important domain of sustainability accounting education. We also explore additional implications for the accounting profession and the general public.