From Green Digital Transformation to Green Organizational Performance: A Knowledge-Based Perspective on Environmental Organizational Learning and Green Knowledge Integration

Abstract

Purpose: The present study aims to investigate the impact of Green Digital Transformation (GDT) on Green Organizational Performance (GOP) through the simultaneous mediating roles of Environmental Organizational Learning (EOL) and Green Knowledge Integration (GKI). Drawing on the Natural Resource-Based View (NRBV) and the Knowledge-Based View (KBV), this study explains how green digital initiatives are converted into superior environmental performance through organizational learning and knowledge integration capabilities. Design-Methodology-Tools: The study employed a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. The data were collected from 296 managers of manufacturing firms situated in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujrat, Sialkot and Multan, Pakistan. The proposed model was tested using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 4.0. The measurement model was evaluated using reliability and validity assessments, while the structural model was examined through bootstrapping with 10,000 resamples to test the direct and mediating relationships. Findings: The results show that Green Digital Transformation has a significant positive impact on Green Organizational Performance. Moreover, Green Digital Transformation has a high positive impact on Environmental Organizational Learning and Green Knowledge Integration which in turn has a positive effect on Green Organizational Performance. The mediation analysis reveals that Environmental Organizational Learning and Green Knowledge Integration partially mediate the relationship between Green Digital Transformation and Green Organizational Performance, suggesting that organizations can achieve higher environmental benefits when digital transformation initiatives are complemented by strong learning and knowledge integration capabilities. Originality/Value: This study adds to the emerging literature on green digital transformation by bringing together the Natural Resource-Based View and the Knowledge-Based View within a unified framework. Different from prior research that emphasizes the direct influence of digital transformation on sustainability performance, this research explicates organizational mechanisms that Green Digital Transformation can leverage to enhance Green Organizational Performance. The study advances theoretical understanding of digital-enabled sustainability by identifying Environmental Organizational Learning and Green Knowledge Integration as complementary mediators. It also offers practical guidance to managers aiming to maximise the environmental benefits of digital transformation.