The influence of TQM on sustainability performance: the mediating role of green technology innovation in manufacturing firms

Purpose Manufacturing firms often rely on traditional production processes that contribute to excessive waste, high energy consumption and pollution, undermining environmental sustainability. This study aims to develop a comprehensive model to investigate how total quality management (TQM) can enhance sustainability performance (SP) by reducing these “non-green” practices, with a particular focus on the mediating role of green technology innovation (GTI). Understanding this mediation is critical because GTI represents the practical application of environmentally friendly innovations that can bridge quality management and sustainable outcomes. Design/methodology/approach Key variables were identified through an extensive literature review. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire from quality managers in 150 manufacturing firms in Isfahan province, Iran. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships among TQM, GTI and SP. Findings TQM demonstrated an impact coefficient of 0.265 on SP and 0.548 on GTI. Furthermore, GTI exhibited an impact coefficient of 0.477 on SP. GTI serves as a significant mediator in the relationship between TQM and SP, underscoring its critical role in facilitating the translation of quality management practices into sustainable performance enhancements. Practical implications The findings guide manufacturing managers to integrate TQM with green technological innovations to achieve competitive sustainability goals. Social implications By promoting environmentally responsible manufacturing, the study contributes to reducing ecological footprints and supports community well-being. Originality/value This research uniquely examines the mediating role of GTI in the TQM–SP relationship, addressing a gap in the literature on how quality management drives sustainability through environmental innovation.