Green human resource management and environmental performance: The role of green innovation and environmental strategy in a developing country

A vast literature supports the notion that green human resource management leads to superior environmental performance. This study argues that green innovation, environmental strategy and pro-environmental behaviour facilitate the relationship between green human resource management and environmental performance in the manufacturing industry of developing countries. To test the mediating effect of green innovation and pro-environmental behaviour alongside the moderating role of environmental strategy in the proposed model, we collected and analysed data from 410 manufacturing firm managers operating in Pakistan using partial least square structural equation modelling. The mediating and moderating results highlighted the significance of green innovation, environmental strategy and pro-environmental behaviour to excel in environmental performance through operational efficiency, appropriate environmental strategy and human willingness to indulge in environmental activities. The findings also suggest implications for theory and practice in similar developing countries. The study offers generalisability in developing countries sharing the same economic and social structure.

Automated summary

This study finds that green innovation, environmental strategy, and pro-environmental behavior play important roles in facilitating the relationship between green human resource management and environmental performance in developing countries' manufacturing industry. The mediating and moderating effects of green innovation, environmental strategy, and pro-environmental behavior were tested using data from 410 manufacturing firm managers in Pakistan. The results highlight the significance of these factors in enhancing environmental performance through operational efficiency, appropriate environmental strategy, and human willingness to engage in environmental activities.