Mediating and moderating effects of green practices on environmental and operational performance in South African textiles

Background: The Textile and Clothing industry is widely recognised as one of the most polluting industries in the world. This includes the South African industry, which is also challenged by the influx of Asian products competing for the same market. To remain competitive, an approach of environmental sustainability can be a viable strategy that can be further enhanced by the adoption of green practices as a strategy.Objectives: The purpose of the study was to investigate the mediating role of green logistics practices (GLP) and the moderating effects of green marketing practices (GMP) on the relationship between environmental performance (EP) and operational performance (OP) in the Textile and Clothing industry in South Africa.Method: The study adopted a quantitative research methodology with a correlational research design. A sample size of 446 manufacturing firms was acquired and data were collected through a survey method with the use of convenience sampling. The data were analysed through Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).Results: GMP were found to show statistically insignificant moderating effects, while GLP demonstrated positive and significant mediating effects.Conclusion: The findings imply that GMP must be prioritised as a key determinant of OP, given the significant direct effect of these practices.Contribution: The study explains the relationship between EP and OP for the industry, and thus also addresses a knowledge gap in the literature regarding this matter. The study also demonstrates the use of the industrial approach and the practice theory as a cohesive theoretical foundation within the field of supply chain management.