Exploring the Role of Green HR Practices and the Challenges of Putting them into Reality to meet Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

This qualitative research explores the function of green HRM practices and the obstacles encountered by human resource managers in executing these practices to attain diverse sustainable development objectives. The discussions with twenty-one human resource managers were conducted. A variety of methods, such as triangulation, respondent validation, and a thorough audit trail of transcriptions and themes, were employed to guaranty rigor. Thematic analysis was employed to identify themes. The findings of the study indicate various obstacles to the implementation of Green HRM practices, such as a lack of awareness regarding environmental and social sustainability, restricted training and development options, financial constraints, absence of governmental backing and policy, feeble regulatory enforcement, opposition to cultural and behavioral transformation, technological and infrastructural shortcomings, lack of sustainability-focused leadership, sustainability expectations from suppliers and clients, and insufficient assessment tools and mechanisms. The research is beneficial for human resource managers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, to adopt green HRM practices following the development of initiatives to address the obstacles identified in the study.