Green workplace: How culture drives green behavior through engagement and support

Organizations are increasingly challenged to adopt sustainable practices, and higher education institutions are essential in fostering green behaviors. This research investigates how perceived green organizational culture (PGOC) influences employee green behavior (EGB), a key driver of cleaner production and reduced environmental impacts. Utilizing Social Exchange Theory and the Job Demand-Resources model, the research tests a mediated-moderated framework where green work engagement (GWE) links culture to behavior, and perceived green organizational support (PGOS) moderates this relationship. Analyzing data from 266 teaching and non-teaching staff in higher education institutions in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, Karnataka, using PLS-SEM reveals that perceived green organizational culture significantly increases employee green behavior, both directly and indirectly through green work engagement. At the same time, perceived green organizational support negatively moderates the relationship between green work engagement and employee green behavior. The findings contribute to organizational behavior and human resource management by emphasizing the role of organizational culture in promoting employee-driven sustainability. By promoting green organizational culture, institutions enhance employee well-being and foster sustainable work practices. It provides actionable insights for higher education institutions aiming to integrate sustainability into their operations, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).