SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES: UNVEILING THE NEXUS OF GREEN HRM, GREEN KNOWLEDGE SHARING, AND ECO-INNOVATION IN AFGHAN SMES

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the impact of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) on promoting employees' Eco-Innovative Behaviour (EIB) in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Afghanistan. Additionally, this work aims to examine the underlying mechanisms using Green Knowledge Sharing (GKS) as a mediating path between GHRM-EIB. This study utilises the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory to develop hypotheses that investigate the direct and indirect impacts of GHRM on EIB. The study investigates the influence of GHRM practices on EIB using a cross-sectional approach, with particular attention on the significant significance of GKS. Data accumulated from a sample of 168 employees working in SMEs in Afghanistan through non-probability sampling technique. The findings confirmed a clear and statistically significant relationship between GHRM and EIB. Furthermore, the study confirms GKS as a crucial intermediary mechanism, implying that knowledge exchange plays a key role in converting GHRM initiatives into EIB. The outcomes not only provide empirical knowledge to the limited body of research in this field, but also have practical implications for SMEs seeking to promote sustainable workplace practices and develop a culture of environmental responsibility. The paper discusses recommendations for future research and tactics that organizations may use to improve EIB through the implementation of GHRM practices and knowledge-sharing initiatives.