Empowering sustainability: the role of green human resource management in fostering pro-environmental behavior in hospitality employees

Purpose Rising pollution, resource scarcity and irreversible climate change have prompted business organizations to plan and implement green practices. One of the most critical aspects of organizational green management is the employees' role in putting environmental management strategies into action. Hence, how to facilitate and motivate employees to exhibit green behaviors in general and pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs) in particular has become of prime significance for contemporary firms, as such behaviors have been suggested to contribute to environmental sustainability. Regardless of the increased awareness of studying employee PEBs, few studies have examined the antecedents and driving forces of PEBs. Design/methodology/approach The present study employed SmartPLS and SPSS to test proposed hypotheses from 286 valid responses gathered from the hospitality industry. Findings This study’s findings explain the significant role of green human resource management practices in predicting employees' pro-environmental behavior by using green work engagement as a mediator. Moreover, individual green values were also found to be a significant moderator in this study. Research limitations/implications Green human resource management (GHRM) techniques, such as training and incentive programs, could be implemented by businesses in hospitality to promote environmentally friendly behavior. To increase green engagement, managers could provide a welcoming, environmentally conscientious work environment. The authorities could set industry standards and provide incentives for GHRM strategies. Originality/value This study addresses the underexplored area of pro-environmental behavior antecedents. It highlights the role of green practices in promoting environmental sustainability through employee behavior, with a unique focus on mediation and moderation mechanisms. The research offers practical insights for organizations, particularly in the hospitality sector, on implementing effective green strategies that foster employee engagement and promote green values.