Green Organizational Culture and Sustainable Development

Abstract

As society grapples with environmental challenges, businesses are increasingly compelled to align their operations with principles of sustainability. One pivotal mechanism for fostering sustainable development is the cultivation of a green organizational culture; an organizational tenet that embeds environmental responsibility within its values, norms, and behaviours. This chapter investigates the transformative role of Green Organizational Culture (GOC) within businesses in advancing Sustainable Development (SD), highlighting the imperative shift from profit-centric motives towards fostering ecological balance and social equity. Employing a qualitative synthesis of existing literature, this chapter navigates through the theoretical frameworks that underpin GOC, highlighting its significance in driving environmentally responsible behaviours within businesses. By examining case studies and scholarly works, the chapter identifies and analyzes the core components and characteristics of GOC, the strategic implementation strategies for fostering such a culture, and its profound impact on SD. The chapter systematically outlines how a commitment to environmental responsibility at all organizational levels can be achieved through aligning with external institutional norms and effectively managing internal processes for change. It provides strategic recommendations for embedding a green culture within organizational practices, thereby contributing to sustainable development goals. It concludes with strategic insights for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of environmental sustainability, emphasizing the long-term benefits of such endeavours for ensuring corporate success and legitimacy in a globally conscious marketplace.