Smart technology adoption and environmental performance in higher education: a TOE and dynamic capability perspective

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the antecedents of smart technology adoption by higher education institutions (HEIs) and the impact of smart technology adoption on the environmental performance of HEIs. Design/methodology/approach Based on the technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework and dynamic capability theory, a theoretical model was developed. This study collected 384 samples from China’s HEIs and examined the theoretical model using the structural equation modeling technique. Findings The findings indicate that technical characteristics, organizational readiness and institutional pressure jointly shape the decision-making of HEIs to adopt smart technology. Smart technology adoption can improve the environmental performance of HEIs by developing green dynamic capabilities. In addition, environmental dynamism weakens the positive impact of smart technology adoption on the environmental performance of HEIs. Originality/value This study not only analyzes the relevant factors affecting smart technology adoption and environmental performance of HEIs but also discusses the capability-building mechanism and moderating conditions. Through these works, this study reveals the key role of smart technology adoption in the process of improving HEIs’ environmental performance. Furthermore, the findings highlight the potential of smart technologies to support sustainability-oriented teaching and research practices, thereby extending their impact beyond campus management. This will provide useful reference for digital transformation and sustainable development of HEIs at both theoretical and practical levels.