Exploring the impact of green learning orientation on sustainability: the mediating role of green organizational learning

Purpose This study aims to fill a gap in the literature by investigating the mediating role of green organizational learning (GOL) between green learning orientation (GLO) and sustainability. Design/methodology/approach The data were collected from 209 hotels and restaurants in the hospitality industry of Pakistan. This study utilized a quantitative approach to examine the relationships through partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings This study underscores the pivotal role of GOL in driving social, economic and environmental sustainability. Results indicate GOL as a significant mediator between GLO and social, economic and environmental sustainability. By highlighting GOL as a critical mechanism to achieve sustainability, the research makes significant theoretical contributions to the sustainability literature while offering practical insights for the hotel industry to address the grand challenge of sustainability actively. Implications This article underscores several crucial managerial implications for advancing sustainability within organizations, offering valuable insights for the hospitality industry. It emphasizes the need for hotels to adopt a strategic approach to achieve sustainability. Additionally, the study offers practical guidelines for policymakers to adopt a more focused approach toward sustainable development because effective organizational strategies can play a pivotal role in achieving specific sustainable development goals (SDGs). Originality/value This study pioneers the conceptualization and testing of a theoretical model linking GLO, GOL and social, economic and environmental sustainability. The results emphasize the critical need for adopting GOL to address sustainability challenges effectively. By presenting evidence that GLO fosters social, economic and environmental sustainability through GOL, this study fills a significant research gap and offers valuable implications for academics and managers.