Technological adoption in green practices as a mediator between green supply chain practices and operational performance

Purpose: This study investigates the mediating role of Technological Adoption in Green Practices (TAGP) in strengthening the relationship between Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices, Green Procurement (GP), Eco-Friendly Packaging (EFP), Waste Management Efficiency (WME), and Supplier Environmental Collaboration (SEC) and Operational Performance (OP) in Bangladesh’s agro-processing and food industry. It aims to identify how technology integration enhances the effectiveness of sustainable practices and overall operational efficiency. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research approach was employed, collecting data through structured questionnaires distributed to 325 agro-processing firms in Bangladesh. After screening, 243 valid responses were analyzed using SmartPLS for Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). This method allowed for the evaluation of both measurement and structural models, assessing direct and mediated relationships among GSCM practices, TAGP, and OP. Findings: EFP and SEC had significant positive effects on OP. Technological Adoption in Green Practices also demonstrated a significant direct influence on OP. Mediation analysis confirmed TAGP as a significant mediator in all four green practices performance relationships, revealing that technology integration is vital to transforming green initiatives into measurable operational outcomes. Practical implications: The study offers valuable insights for managers and policymakers, emphasizing the necessity of technological investment to optimize green initiatives and improve performance within the agro-processing sector. Social implications: Promoting sustainable and tech-enabled practices can contribute to environmental conservation and resource efficiency, benefiting both society and the economy. Originality/value: This study uniquely integrates TOE, RBV, and NRBV frameworks to empirically demonstrate the pivotal role of technology in enhancing green supply chain performance in a developing country context.