Role of socially responsible HRM in eliciting proactive pro-environmental behavior among employees: a model for sustainable organizations

Purpose The current study aims to investigate the mediating effect of desire to have a significant impact through work (DSIW) in the direct relationship between socially responsible human resource management (SRHRM) and proactive pro-environmental behavior. Moreover, this study examines whether ethical leadership moderates the relationship between socially responsible HRM and DSIW. Design/methodology/approach This study used a two-wave time-lagged design to collect data from employees working in public-sector organizations across various industries in Lahore, Pakistan. Hayes Process macro model 7 was used to analyze the moderated mediation. Findings The study findings demonstrate that socially responsible HRM is positively related to employees’ proactive pro-environmental behavior through their innate DSIW. Moreover, this relationship between socially responsible HRM and proactive pro-environmental behavior via DSIW is strengthened for employees who perceive that they are led by ethical leaders. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is novel in delineating an integrated perspective on socially responsible HRM practices, DSIW and ethical leadership to understand proactive pro-environmental employee behavior.