How does training boost employees' intention to implement environmental activities? An empirical study in Vietnam

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, this study aims to apply a mixed-method to enrich the literature by investigating interrelationships among training, environmental triggers (environmental knowledge, awareness and concern) and employees' intention to carry out environmental activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This research applied a mixed-method carried out in Vietnam. By using the time-lagged data, Study 1 (quantitative research) was employed to test hypotheses. With Study 2 (qualitative research), four in-depth interviews were conducted to gain insight into a few unexpected findings from Study 1.

Findings

Study 1 indicates that environmental training is critical to directly boost not only the three environmental triggers but also employees' intention to engage in environmental activities. The findings further point out that environmental concern and awareness mediate the relationship between environmental training and employees' intention to engage in environmental activities. Unexpectedly, connections from environmental concern and awareness to employees' intentions were not moderated by environmental knowledge. The findings of Study 2 shed light on the role of environmental knowledge.

Originality/value

Based on the conservation of resources and social exchange theories, the research contributes to the existing literature by providing a better understanding of how environmental training stimulates employees' intention to implement environmental activities. The findings may be helpful for managers to encourage employees to contribute to organizations' green objectives.

Citation

Pham, N.T., Jabbour, C.J.C., Usman, M., Ali, M. and Phan, H.-L. (2022), "How does training boost employees' intention to implement environmental activities? An empirical study in Vietnam", International Journal of Manpower, Vol. 43 No. 8, pp. 1761-1782. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJM-04-2021-0238