Examining the Factors that Influence the Employee Green Behavior in China Logistics Industry Using Social Identity Theory

Abstract

Purpose: The logistics industry has long been among China's top four carbon-emitting industries. However, previous research has shown that the green behavior of employees in the logistics industry has not received sufficient attention. The main objective of this study is to examine the factors influencing the green behavior of employees in the Chinese logistics service provider industry. Additionally, this study will examine how different external factors affect employees' organizational identification and further stimulate their green behavior. Design/methodology/approach: The present study will use quantitative research with a survey method. Questionnaires will be used to collect data from logistics enterprise managers. Data screening and analysis will use the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and SmartPLS 4.0. Findings: This study's findings emphasize the mediating role of organizational identification in the relationship between perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR), environmentally specific servant leadership (ESSL), and employee green behavior (EGB).  Practical implications: It is among the first empirical studies focusing on these relationships in China’s logistics industry, which focuses on the individual level. Therefore, the proposed empirical investigations will be helpful to the managers from logistics service providers because they have implications for the organizational environmental sustainability decision-making process. Originality/value: By testing this mediating effect in different contexts, this study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the intermediary role of organizational identification between perceived CSR and EGB. Also, this study should benefit the Chinese logistics service providers' managers and policymakers by stimulating them to improve their ability to develop, practice and guide environmental policy.