Harnessing knowledge ecology management perspective in green microfinance through critical discourse analysis

Purpose Green microfinance, a growing subset of microfinance, has several challenges and gaps that require academic attention. The purpose of this study is to decipher the power dynamics between various stakeholders of green microfinance by harnessing knowledge management perspective towards the perceptions and attitudes of the beneficiaries and how well green microfinance acts as a tool to create awareness among the masses about its benefits and in achieving the goal of financial inclusion through knowledge ecology management (KEM). Design/methodology/approach This study uses a qualitative method to explore the various dimensions of green microfinance, including its aims & scope, drivers, outcomes and prospects, as explained through the lens of ecological theory of knowledge management. A critical discourse analysis, which facilitates discourse through linguistic analysis of recordings and texts, has been used on 178 newspaper articles, policy documents and videos from 2019 to 2023. Findings This study found four prominent aims of green microfinance, its five key drivers, and five outcomes of reliance on this source of finance from knowledge ecology management (KEM) perspective. It also sheds light on the future outlook of sustainable investments and financing. Practical implications This study provides a bird’s-eye view and a thorough examination of the aspects of green microfinance within the KEM framework, thereby providing valuable decision-making insights for financial institutions, policymakers and small borrowers. Originality/value The proposed enhanced ecological knowledge management framework illustrates a conceptual framework representing the thematic discourses undertaken and the elements that play a crucial role in achieving valuable outcomes of green microfinance.