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Bridging green human resource management and SME sustainable outcomes: the catalytic role of green knowledge-management, innovation, and employee perception of sustainability of the organizational support

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Given the critical role small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have in the country’s growth, sustaining their outcome is essential for gaining competitive advantages. This research used a quantitative research design to investigate the impact of green human resource management (GHRM), green innovation (GINN), and green knowledge-management processes (GKMP) on SME sustainability outcomes (SOS). Using a purposive sampling approach, data were collected from 508 managerial staff members of SMEs located in five major polluted areas: Shaanxi, Henan, Shanxi, Hebei, and Shandong, in China. The data were then analyzed using SmartPLS 4.1 software. The results indicate that GHRM significantly influences GKMP, GINN, and SOS. Additionally, GKMP and GINN were found to partially mediate the link between GHRM and SOS. The study also confirms a significant moderating impact of individuals’ perception of the sustainability of organizational support between GHRM and SOS (-0.174) and between GINN and SOS (0.090). The study’s practical outcomes suggest ways to design and implement GHRM initiatives that enhance an organization’s sustainability development goals.

Source: Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

DOI: 10.1057/s41599-026-07731-w

Authors: Shufeng Li, JieQiong Pan

Institutions: Shandong University of Political Science and Law, Lyceum of the Philippines University

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Sustainability in Business

Subfield: Marketing

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,890