Eco-friendly behavior as a moderator: How responsible leadership shapes environmental performance through organizational green culture in the hospitality industry?

Abstract

This research examines the influence of responsible leadership on environmental performance and organizational green culture within the hospitality sector. In light of increasing environmental challenges, responsible leadership—defined by its stakeholder-oriented approach—has emerged as a critical driver of sustainable practices. The research tests a conceptual model using data from 572 employees and managers in four- and five-star hotels in Antalya, Türkiye. Key hypotheses include the positive effects of responsible leadership on both environmental performance and organizational green culture. Additionally, this study investigates the mediating role of green culture and the moderating effect of employees' eco-friendly behavior. Results confirm that responsible leadership positively impacts environmental performance and green culture, with green culture partially mediating this relationship. Furthermore, eco-friendly behavior amplifies the influence of green culture on environmental outcomes. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating responsible leadership and cultivating a green organizational culture to enhance sustainability efforts. Practical implications for hospitality management include prioritizing sustainability-oriented leadership and fostering eco-conscious behaviors among employees. Future research may explore longitudinal data and expand the model to different cultural contexts.