Effect of green human resource management and knowledge management on environmental performance: a mediated-moderated analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of green human resource management (GHRM) on environmental performance via the mediating role of green knowledge management (GKM). This study also attempts to clarify the potential moderating role of digital culture in fostering the influence of aspects of green knowledge management on environmental performance. Design/methodology/approach The paper applied the quantitative approach and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test proposed mediated-moderated model using data collected from 323 SMEs in Vietnam. Findings The empirical findings revealed the significant mediating role of dimensions of green knowledge management in connecting the effects of GHRM practices on environmental performance. Digital culture is also confirmed as the important moderating in fostering the impacts of aspects of GKM on environmental performance. Research limitations/implications Future study should explore the impact of responsible leadership on environmental performance via the mediating effects of GKM to bring better understanding on the key antecedents and mechanisms to foster environmental performance. Originality/value The paper significantly contributes to increasing understanding and theoretical initiatives on GHRM practices and performance management as it clarifies the key antecedents and theoretical mechanisms to enhance environmental performance of SMEs in the developing and emerging nations.