Green intellectual capital and sustainable performance: an empirical investigation within the hotel industry

Purpose This study investigates the impact of green intellectual capital (IC) on the economic, social, and environmental sustainability performance of manufacturing small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan–an emerging Asian economy–and the mediating effect of sustainable business model innovation (SBMI). It also examines the moderating effect of green dynamic capability (GDC) on the relationship between green IC and SBMI. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through a survey completed by 324 owners and top managers of manufacturing SMEs in four Pakistani cities. A purposive and snowball sampling approach was used to gather the data. A dual-stage methodological approach (a combination of PLS-SEM and artificial neural networks) was applied to capture both linear connections and complex, hidden, nonlinear patterns between variables. Regression analysis was used to verify the results. Findings The findings indicate that green IC positively contributes to manufacturing SMEs' economic sustainability performance (ECSP), social sustainability performance (SSP), and environmental sustainability performance (ESP) in an emerging Asian economy. SBMI appears to mediate these relationships. Furthermore, GDC strengthens green IC's positive effect on SBMI adoption. The artificial neural network results indicate that green human capital has the highest positive influence on ECSP and SSP, suggesting its pivotal role in achieving SMEs' economic and social sustainability goals. However, green relational capital was identified as having the strongest effect on ESP, indicating its crucial role in driving environmental sustainability in SMEs. Originality/value The present study is a pioneering effort because, to the best of our knowledge, green IC, SBMI, and GDC have never been systematically tested with the ECSP, SSP and ESP of manufacturing SMEs, nor has their predictive ability been analyzed in an emerging Asian economy. Second, this study divulges the mediating role of SBMI in the relationship between green IC and sustainability performance in an emerging market. Third, it adds to the literature by examining the moderating role of GDC in the link between green IC and SBMI and provides valuable insights into how green IC and GDC interact to foster SBMI adoption. Fourth, the study enriches the resource-based view literature by integrating green IC, SBMI, GDC and sustainability performance. Finally, the study is unique in its use of a dual-stage methodological approach consisting of structural equation modeling and artificial neural networks to capture both linear connections and complicated, hidden, nonlinear patterns that conventional statistical approaches might overlook. No study had analytically assessed how the dimensions of green IC affect the ECSP, SSP and ESP of SMEs by employing this hybrid approach so far.

This study investigates the relationship between green human capital, green operational capital, green intellectual capital, and organisational operational efficiency. It also investigates the function of green intellectual capital in moderating these interactions. Green human capital relates to individuals’ environmental knowledge and abilities, whereas green operational capital refers to the physical resources and technologies that support sustainable operations. Green intellectual capital refers to an organisation’s collective environmental knowledge, innovative thinking, and capacities. The study emphasises the interdependence of these variables and their impact on operational efficiency. Green intellectual capital, it is discovered, mediates the linkages between green human capital and operational efficiency, as well as green operational capital and operational efficiency. The findings highlight the necessity of cultivating a sustainable culture and investing in developing green resources and competencies to improve operational efficiency. This study adds to the body of knowledge on green management and offers useful insights for organisations seeking to establish sustainable operational practices and competitive advantages.

This research investigated the relationship between the green intellectual capital (GIC) and the sustainable performance in Algeria’s waste recycling management sector. Acknowledging the importance of Global Information Communication (GIC) in achieving organizational success, this research investigates how it is utilized and its effects. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) with the PLS-V3 software, the study examines information gathered from 400 entrepreneurs who oversee waste recycling businesses in Algeria. The study focused on three primary components of GIC: green relational capital, green structural capital, and green human capital. The hypotheses were formulated to assess the influence of each component on sustainable performance. The results supported all four proposed hypotheses, showing a positive link between the Green Intellectual Capital (GIC) and the sustainable performance. Specifically, the combined effects of relational, structural, and human capital enhanced sustainability outcomes. The research showed the significance of the waste recycling industry implementing strategies that make the most of Green Intangible Capital (GIC) elements. This includes connecting with stakeholders who prioritize environmental preservation, sharing knowledge, and working together. Green structural capital refers to the systems and processes that support eco-friendly practices, like environmental management systems and sustainable supply chain management. Green human capital focuses on employees' skills and knowledge in sustainability, highlighting the importance of training and opportunities for professional development. This study adds value to existing knowledge by clarifying how GIC plays a role in fostering a future. It offers insights for waste recycling firms, policymakers, and other interested parties in Algeria and beyond. By emphasising the significance of GIC in achieving performance, this research provides practical implications for crafting strategies and policies that leverage green intellectual assets for economic and environmental advantages. The study underscored organisations’ need to invest in nurturing their GIC to promote sustainable business practices and attain enduring success.

Manufacturing organizations have a pivotal role in reducing the adverse impact of global warming by adopting sustainable practices and producing environmentally-friendly products. Organizations are engaged in environmental corporate social responsibility (ECSR) and emphasize green intellectual capital (GIC), green innovative products and support for business sustainability (BUS). The current study aims to analyze the impact of organizational ECSR and GIC on green innovation (GIN) and BUS. The data for 237 participants from the manufacturing firms were analyzed via partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The study results revealed that ECSR and GIC are crucial for GIN and BUS. The study’s findings revealed that ECSR positively and significantly impacts green relational capital (GRC) and green structural capital (GSC). However, ECSR’s positive impact on green human capital (GHC) was insignificant. Further, the results of the mediation analysis show that GIN serves as a full mediator between GIC’s two components, GRC and GSC and a partial mediator between GHC and BUS. This study extends the environmental management literature and suggests measures for practitioners to enhance organizational capabilities in order to address environmental issues through innovative green initiatives.

The function of Green Intellectual Capital (GIC) in promoting social and environmental sustainability in the manufacturing industry is investigated in this study. GIC, which is made up of Green Relational Capital (GRC), Green Structural Capital (GSC), and Green Human Capital (GHC), is a strategic tool that helps businesses adopt sustainable practices. To give a thorough grasp of how GIC supports sustainability, the study combines the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Stakeholder Theory. According to RBV, businesses with a high GIC have a higher chance of gaining a competitive edge through operational effectiveness and innovation driven by sustainability. In order to satisfy the demands of investors, workers, customers, and regulatory agencies, it is critical to strike a balance between economic performance and social and environmental obligations, according to stakeholder theory. The study also investigates how financial circumstances may act as a mediator in the connection between GIC and sustainability results. While financially constrained firms, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), frequently struggle to integrate sustainability initiatives due to limited access to green finance, financially strong firms are better equipped to adopt green technologies, workforce training, and sustainable supply chains. To support sustainable company transitions, policymakers must put in place focused interventions like tax breaks, subsidies, and green finance programs. According to the results, companies may improve their long-term profitability, operational resilience, and market positioning while lowering environmental degradation by carefully incorporating GIC into their corporate frameworks. Future studies could look into industry-specific obstacles to the adoption of GIC and assess how well regulatory frameworks support sustainability. In the end, this study emphasizes how companies, legislators, and financial institutions must work together to fully realize GIC's potential and facilitate the shift to a more sustainable industrial sector.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of green intellectual capital (GIC) on environmental sustainability performance (ESP) among companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE). This study further investigates the mediating role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in this relationship. This research seeks to elucidate the effects of GIC components – green human capital (GHC), green structural capital (GSC) and green relational capital (GRC) – on ESP. Design/methodology/approach This study used a mixed-method approach, collecting data from 246 managers of ASE-listed firms. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling, this research tested the direct and mediated relationships between GIC, CSR and ESP. Findings The results of this study reveal a significant positive relationship between GIC and ESP, particularly through the contributions of GHC and GSC. CSR is identified as a critical mediator, amplifying the positive effects of GIC on ESP. Notably, GRC exhibited no significant direct or mediated influence on ESP. Research limitations/implications This study is geographically limited to an emerging market context and focuses on managerial perspectives. Future research should explore broader geographic contexts, include diverse stakeholders and examine the role of organizational culture in enhancing the GIC–ESP dynamic. Practical implications This research provides actionable insights for human resource and sustainability managers. By leveraging GIC components and fostering CSR initiatives, organizations in emerging markets can enhance both environmental sustainability and corporate performance. Social implications The findings of this study underscore the importance of embedding environmental responsibility within organizational practices to create a sustainable working environment, benefiting employees and the broader community. Originality/value This study offers novel insights into the interplay between GIC, CSR and ESP, highlighting the strategic value of intellectual capital (IC) in driving environmental and organizational performance. This study bridges key gaps in the literature on sustainability in emerging markets.

This study examines the moderating role of green human resource management practices (GHRMP) in the relationship between green intellectual capital (GIC) and sustainable manufacturing. Green intellectual capital is operationalized through three dimensions: green human capital, green structural capital, and green social capital. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 234 respondents employed in a manufacturing firm whose operational context aligns with the study objectives. The research framework was tested using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The analytical strategy comprised one main structural model assessing the direct effect of overall GIC on sustainable manufacturing and three sub-models examining the individual effects of the GIC dimensions, including the moderating role of GHRMP. In total, nine hypotheses were formulated and empirically tested. The findings reveal a significant positive effect of overall green intellectual capital on sustainable manufacturing, with GHRMP exerting a strengthening moderating effect. At the dimensional level, green human capital and green social capital demonstrated significant positive relationships with sustainable manufacturing, both directly and under moderation. In contrast, green structural capital exhibited a negative and non-significant moderating effect, indicating that insufficient institutionalized environmental knowledge and weak regulatory awareness may hinder sustainability outcomes. Overall, seven out of nine hypotheses were supported. The findings suggest that manufacturing firms should strategically strengthen green HRM practices-particularly green training, performance management, and employee engagement-to effectively leverage green human and social capital for sustainable manufacturing outcomes, while improving environmental governance structures to address weaknesses in green structural capital.

This study investigates the mechanisms through which green entrepreneurial orientation (GEO) influences sustainable performance (SuP) in Chinese manufacturing enterprises, focusing on the mediating role of green intellectual capital (GIC) and the moderating effect of environmental uncertainty (EU). Drawing on the Resource-Based View and Natural Resource Base View, we develop and test a moderated mediation model using data from 486 Chinese manufacturing firms. Results from partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) reveal that GEO positively influences SuP both directly and indirectly through GIC. Moreover, EU negatively moderates the relationship between GIC and SuP. These findings contribute to the literature on green entrepreneurship and sustainable performance by elucidating the complex relationships among GEO, GIC, EU, and SuP in the context of Chinese manufacturing. The study offers important implications for theory development and managerial practice in promoting sustainable development in manufacturing industries.

PurposeDespite its potential advantages in a wide range of environmental subjects, green intellectual capital has received scant attention in the field of reverse logistics (RL). This research focuses on exploring the relationship between significant green intellectual capital assets (namely green human capital, green relational capital, and green structural capital) and RL competency. The moderating role of regulatory measures was also hypothesized and tested.Design/methodology/approachA survey-based research instrument was employed to collect data and partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) based approach was utilized to test hypotheses.FindingsThe results indicate that green relational capital and green structural capital are positively associated with RL competency. Interestingly, regulatory measures are also found only to moderate the relationship between green human capital and RL competency.Originality/valueThis study extends the present literature by enhancing the knowledge of RL competency, which is a critical ingredient of the circular economy, by revealing the relation with green intellectual capital. Additionally, this study offers insights into the manufacturing industry, especially in emerging economies for academics and practitioners.

This study aimed to analyze how Sustainability Performance enhanced Green Competitive Advantage through Environmental Consciousness and Green Intellectual Capital in Indonesia's agricultural manufacturing sector. The Natural Resource-Based View (NRBV), Stakeholder, and Knowledge-Based theories were integrated to address a literature gap on this mediation mechanism in developing countries. A quantitative, explanatory causality method was adopted to collect data through surveys of 183 senior and middle managers from relevant companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The study used a cross-sectional time horizon and individual unit of analysis, then, data were processed using Structural Equation Modeling with AMOS software. The results showed that both Environmental Consciousness and Green Intellectual Capital significantly positive influence on Sustainability Performance, thereby enhancing Green Competitive Advantage. Furthermore, Sustainability Performance fully mediated the relationships between Environmental Consciousness and Green Competitive Advantage, as well as between Green Intellectual Capital and Green Competitive Advantage. These results showed that Sustainability Performance was important for converting environmental awareness and intellectual resources into competitive advantage by improving resource efficiency, stimulating green innovation, and enhancing corporate image. This study contributes theoretically by expanding NRBV and Stakeholder theories through incorporating Sustainability Performance as a mediator. It was practically recommended that companies should internalize Environmental Consciousness through training, develop Green Intellectual Capital, and implement sustainability management systems like ISO 14001. For regulators, the results supported policies promoting ESG transparency and green practice incentives. This study also addressed global challenges, such as the EU's CBAM, showing the need to adapt to sustainability standards for the maintenance of market competitiveness.

Purpose This study aims to examine the direct impact of green intellectual capital (GIC) on the sustainability performance of Indonesian MSMEs, focusing on the fashion and craft sectors in East Java. It also investigates the mediating roles of green entrepreneurial orientation (GEO) and green innovation capacity (GRIN). Despite extensive research on GIC in large enterprises, limited studies have explored its impact on MSMEs, particularly in emerging markets. This study addresses this gap by analyzing how MSMEs leverage GIC to drive sustainability performance in resource-constrained environments. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a quantitative research design using a survey method to collect data from MSME owners and managers. A total of 814 questionnaires were distributed, yielding 161 valid responses for further analysis. The hypotheses were tested using the partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach, applying a mediation research framework. Findings The results reveal that GIC has a significant positive effect on sustainability performance (ß = 0.62, p < 0.01). GEO (ß = 0.34, p < 0.01) and GRIN (ß = 0.13, p < 0.1) partially mediate this relationship. The model exhibits strong explanatory power, with R2 values of 0.50 for GEO, 0.77 for GRIN, and 0.48 for sustainability performance. These findings support the resource-based view (RBV) by demonstrating that distinctive internal resources play a key role in driving sustainability performance. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by examining the impact of GIC on MSMEs’ sustainability, highlighting the importance of mediation through GEO and GRIN. It provides insights into how MSMEs in emerging markets navigate sustainability challenges with limited resources, offering valuable implications for both theory and practice.

Purpose Grounded on the natural resource-based view (NRBV) theory, this study aims to analyze the impact of five green strategies – environmental regulations, corporate environmental ethics, green dynamic capability, top management support and green intellectual capital, on green innovation and its impact on sustainability performance of manufacturing firms in Egypt; in addition, the mediating role of circular economy practices on the relationship between green innovations and firms’ sustainability performance was assessed. Design/methodology/approach The data were collected from 394 responses from Egyptian manufacturing firms by using purposive sampling method. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was mainly employed to analyze the data. Findings The study finds that environmental regulations, corporate environmental ethics, green dynamic capabilities and top management support significantly enhance green innovations of Egyptian manufacturing firms, while green intellectual capital is found insignificant. The relationship between green innovations and sustainability is found to be positive. The results reveal that circular economy practices partially mediate the relationship between green innovations and sustainable practices in Egyptian manufacturing firms. Practical implications To ensure sustainable business performance in Egypt, a long-term strategy focusing on green innovations is essential. The government should enforce strict regulations, while firms adopt sustainable practices, support managers and train young employees to drive green supply chain innovations and enhance business performance. Originality/value This study focuses on manufacturing firms, exploring the impact of green business processes on green innovation and sustainability performance. It uniquely examines the mediation role of the circular economy and provides insights applicable to developing countries like Egypt.

Purpose This research examines the relationship between green intellectual capital (GRIC), blockchain technology (BCT), green manufacturing (GM) and sustainable performance in large manufacturing firms. Design/methodology/approach Cross-sectional data were gathered from manufacturers, and partial least square structural equation modeling was employed to examine the proposed hypotheses. Findings The outcomes elucidated that GRIC, which includes green human capital (GRHC), green structural capital (GRSC) and green relational capital (GRRC), has enabled the implementation of GM and BCT. Furthermore, GM and BCT have a positive relationship with all three dimensions of sustainability performance. Research limitations/implications The findings provide a policy framework for practitioners, decision makers and legislators to enhance GM in firms as its implementation gives a competitive position, enhances profitability, enable to meet customers' demands and improves societal safety and help preserving natural environment. Originality/value The current research is novel in that it discusses in depth mechanic on GRIC, BCT and GM. This study enhances the comprehension of the intellectual capital-based view and dynamic capabilities theory by postulating that GRIC has a significant role in the adoption of GM and BCT, which further affects sustainable performance.

Purpose Although the existing literature emphasizes how green intellectual capital (GIC) impacts sustainable performance (SP), few studies exist regarding Saudi Arabian hotels employing dynamic capabilities theory (DCT) and knowledge sharing (KS) as moderators. This study sought to exhibit the influence of GIC on SP in Saudi hotel management, where leadership commitment (LC) functioned as the mediator and KS as the moderator over two tiers. Furthermore, it addresses the existing gap by investigating the relationship between GIC and SP in the Saudi hotel industry, concentrating on the significance of LC and KS. Design/methodology/approach Between February and April 2024, 415 hotel employees at 21 hotels in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, participated in a multi-wave survey. Measurement scales were adopted to construct 12 latent variables, and an instrument employing a 5-point Likert scale was devised for data collection purposes. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling was used for data analysis. Findings The research findings indicate GIC has a positive influence on both LC and SP, with LC also positively influencing SP. Additionally, LC mediates between GIC and SP. Notably, KS negatively moderates the nexus between GIC and LC, while positively moderating that between GIC and SP. However, from a statistical viewpoint, as a moderator KS does not influence the relationship between LC and SP. Research limitations/implications This research highlights the potential contribution of KS toward improvements in SP in the hospitality sector. It acknowledges the multifaceted role KS plays, offering recommendations for those hotel managers who are motivated to increase standards of sustainable practices by managing their intellectual capital and practicing effective leadership. The research is geographically limited in scope, limiting its wider application. Additional studies will examine similar models in other service sectors as well as cross-cultural contexts in the future. Originality/value We build on the intellectual capital literature by using KS as a moderator variable, grounded in the DCT. The blending of these theories enables us to develop a clearer understanding of the use of LC and GIC to influence SP within the hospitality sector. Additionally, this research is one of the first empirical attempts to construct and validate a moderated mediation model based on GIC, KS and LC in hospitality environments. The model offers a nuanced explanation of the mechanisms by which intellectual capital and leadership collectively drive sustainability performance, a topic studied relatively less frequently in the hospitality and service operations literature.

Purpose This study aims to explore the relationship between green intellectual capital (GIC) and social performance in small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam. Specifically, it examines how three components of GIC, green human capital, green structural capital and green relational capital, influence social performance through the mediating roles of green knowledge sharing and green innovation. Design/methodology/approach The research uses a quantitative approach, using partial least squares structural equation modeling to analyze data collected from 508 valid responses of small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam. The study applies a sequential mediation analysis to assess the roles of green knowledge sharing and green innovation as mediating mechanisms on the relationship between GIC components and social performance. Findings The findings of the current study show that green knowledge sharing and green innovation are significant mediators between GIC components (green human capital, green structural capital and green relational capital) and social performance. This research shows that GIC enhances social performance through a process that begins with the development of green knowledge-sharing practices, which foster green innovation. Moreover, these innovations lead to enhanced social performance of organizations as they fulfill the expectation of their stakeholders and improve their corporate social responsibility performance. Originality/value This study advances GIC research by moving beyond the field’s dominant emphasis on environmental and financial outcomes to examine social performance, which remains comparatively underexplored in prior GIC work. In contrast to studies that test GIC’s direct effects or consider knowledge sharing or innovation as isolated mechanisms, the model theorizes and validates a sequential process in which GIC (via its human, structural and relational dimensions) strengthens green knowledge sharing, which then facilitates green innovation, culminating in enhanced social performance in Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises. By identifying this pathway, the study clarifies how GIC is transformed into social sustainability benefits and offers a process-based explanation that complements and extends existing GIC-performance research.