The moderating role of knowledge sharing in the relationship of transformational leadership style and environmental sustainability: an empirical study on the employee of ministries in the United Arab Emirate

Purpose In response to the prevalent significance of combating climate change, government agencies are required to achieve the critical goals of protecting natural resources, fostering long-term growth and promoting environmental sustainability. On this account, this study aims to investigate the moderating effect of knowledge sharing on the relationship between transformational leadership style and environmental sustainability. Design/methodology/approach To ensure the accuracy of the outcome, the study was designed using the resource-based view approach, comprising a sample of 276 employees across various United Arab Emirates (UAE) ministries, administering a validated questionnaire. The non-parametric software (i.e. Smart PLS 4) was used to analyse the data. Findings The findings indicated that three dimensions of transformational leadership style, idealised influence, individualised consideration and intellectual stimulation, were significantly related to environmental sustainability. Inspirational motivation, however, did not predict environmental sustainability. Originality/value In terms of value, the novelty of this study is the theoretical foundations that it provides for future research on the role of knowledge sharing that can affect transformational leadership and environmental sustainability among the ministries in the UAE. This study also sets a benchmark for these ministries and other public sectors’ strategic decision-making process of increasing knowledge sharing through a transformational leadership style.