Chief financial officers should be directly involved in their companies' sustainability programs as investors, customers and other stakeholders see a strong link between sustainability and financial performance, according to a new report from Ernst & Young LLP.

Considering the many risks and opportunities concerning environmental, social and governance issues, the report addresses how CFOs' roles are evolving in investor relations, external reporting, assurance, operational controllership and financial risk management.

The mounting pressure for CFOs to participate in the measurement and management of environmental and social performance has stemmed from institutional investors and equity analysts, especially as environmental, social and governance issues are more accessible.