Corporate social responsibility and green performance: the mediating role of green innovation – evidence from emerging economies

Purpose The aim of the study is to examine the interplay between corporate social responsibility (CSR), green innovation (GI) and green performance (GP) with a focus on the role of green innovation in mediating the relationship between corporate social responsibility and green performance. Design/methodology/approach This study used a survey questionnaire to collect data from top managers of 124 certified manufacturing companies in Tunisia. Structural equation modeling (SEM) using the partial least squares (PLS) approach was employed to test the hypotheses. Findings The results indicate that corporate social responsibility has a positive and significant effect on green innovation and green performance. Furthermore, green innovation positively influences green performance and partially mediates the relationship between corporate social responsibility and green performance. Originality/value This study provides empirical evidence on the role of corporate social responsibility in promoting green innovation and green performance in the context of an emerging economy such as Tunisia. It provides valuable insights for practitioners seeking to enhance green performance by effectively integrating corporate social responsibility initiatives and green innovation into their business strategies.