Integrating <scp>CSR</scp> with environmental consciousness and commitment: Pathways to employee stewardship in Vietnam's mechanical manufacturing sector

Abstract This research investigates the influence of perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR) on employee environmental stewardship actions (ESA) by drawing upon social exchange theory (SET) and social identity theory (SIT). The mediating role of environmental consciousness (ECS) and commitment (ECM) within this relationship is also examined. The empirical research builds on a sample survey involving 392 participants from various mechanical manufacturing firms in Hanoi, Vietnam. The proposed model was analyzed using a Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM) approach. We find that (i) perceived CSR positively impacts employees' ESA, and (ii) both ECS and ECM mediate the relationship between perceived CSR and ESA. These results suggest that CSR fosters ESA through direct and indirect pathways (via ECS or ECM). This research offers valuable insights for businesses in the manufacturing industry, informing the development of effective CSR strategies that promote environmental sustainability among employees.