Pathways to environmental responsibility: unveiling the synergy of leadership, ethics and HRM practices

Farhan Sarwar, Rajeh Bati Almasradi and Syed Muhammad Abbas

Social Responsibility Journal, 2025, vol. 21, issue 10, 2318-2335

Abstract: PurposeThis study aims to explore the effect of authentic leadership (AL) and socially responsible human resource management (SR-HRM) on employees’ environmentally responsible behavior (ERB). Additionally, it examines the mediating role of the Islamic work ethic (IWE) and the moderating effect of organizational identification (OI) in this relationship.Design/methodology/approachUsing social identity theory, a cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Data were collected from service sector organizations in Saudi Arabia to analyze the direct and indirect relationships between AL, SR-HRM, IWE, OI and ERB.FindingsThe results indicate that AL has a positive direct effect on ERB. Additionally, SR-HRM influences ERB indirectly through IWE. Furthermore, OI strengthens the relationship between AL and ERB, highlighting its moderating role.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the literature on sustainability and organizational behavior by integrating leadership, ethics and HRM practices in pursuit of organizational environmental responsibility. This study also provides practical guidance for organizations seeking to enhance sustainability initiatives through ethical leadership and responsible HR practices.

Keywords: Authentic leadership; Socially responsible human resource management; Environmentally responsible behavior; Islamic work ethic; Organizational identification (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:srjpps:srj-02-2025-0114

DOI: 10.1108/SRJ-02-2025-0114

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