Green practices and supply chain performance in South African textiles: Evidence from Gauteng

Purpose: The removal of trade sanctions in 1995 led to trade liberalisation in the South African textile and clothing industry. Although this new regionalism increased economic activity, a decrease in environmental sustainability resulted. Over the years, this impairment has become a concern and national priority, with textile and clothing manufacturing firms urged to adopt green practices. Although some firms have reported improvements in environmental sustainability, many have not adopted green practices and thus their impact on supply chain performance remains unclear. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the impact of green practices on supply chain performance in the textile and clothing industry in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach: This study was quantitative and it employed a correlational research design with an explanatory and predictive approach using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Data were collected from managers working in the textile and clothing manufacturing firms in Gauteng. This was done through a survey method with the use of convenience sampling. A sample size of 446 textile and clothing manufacturing firms was determined. Findings/results: Green logistics practices exhibited a statistically insignificant relationship with supply chain performance, but the strongest relationship with green marketing practices. Practical implications: The results revealed a positive and significant relationship between green marketing practices and supply chain performance, while green logistics practices were found to exhibit an insignificant direct effect on supply chain performance. Originality/value: This study revealed strong mediating effects, which, mainly verify that green practices ultimately influence the overall supply chain performance in significant ways.