The effect of perceived corporate sustainability on pro-environmental behavior and innovation in sustainability: examining the role of employee engagement

Purpose This study investigates the influence of perceived corporate sustainability (PCS) and employee engagement (EE) on two critical workplace outcomes: pro-environmental behavior (PEB) and innovation in sustainability (IS). It also examines whether EE moderates the relationships between (a) PCS and PEB and (b) PCS and IS. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected through a structured survey of 215 employees across multiple countries and diverse industries. All variables were measured using multi-item Likert-type scales and validated through confirmatory factor analysis. Structural equation modeling using AMOS was employed to test the direct and moderating effects. Findings The results demonstrate that PCS and EE each exert significant positive effects on both PEB and IS, demonstrating their independent contributions to sustainable workplace outcomes. However, the hypothesized moderating role of employee engagement is not supported. These findings offer practical guidance for organizations seeking to enhance their sustainability performance. Originality/value This research extends prior studies by moving beyond CSR-oriented investigations confined to single countries or sectors and adopting a broader perspective on corporate sustainability. By empirically validating a conceptual model using survey data collected from employees across multiple countries and industries, the study elucidates the distinct effect of PCS and EE on PEB and IS.