DOES GREEN EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT CATALYSE PRO-ENVIRONMENTAL BEHAVIOUR? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA

Authors

  • Grace M. Odhiambo Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
  • Esther W. Waiganjo Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
  • Alice N. Simiyu Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The study sought to examine the influence of green employee involvement on employee pro-environmental behaviour in public universities in Kenya. 

Statement of the Problem: Universities are vast entities with a diverse range of stakeholders. They require significant resource consumption for administrative tasks, teaching materials, and research activities. As a result, they generate substantial carbon emissions, waste, and pollution. These institutions have been described as microcosms of the environmental problems facing society today. Consequently, they are under pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices. However, the effectiveness of these practices largely depends on the people working within these universities. As such, the true power to achieve sustainability lies in effecting human behaviour change.

Methodology: The study utilized the correlational research design and combined quantitative and qualitative research approaches. From three purposively selected public universities in Kenya, a sample of 123 respondents was drawn using stratified random sampling. Primary data was collected using an online questionnaire and was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools.

Findings: The study indicated a strong positive linear relationship between employee involvement and employee pro-environmental behaviour in public universities in Kenya. ANOVA results also revealed that the regression model was statistically significant.  The null hypothesis was therefore rejected. Hence, green employee involvement has a significant influence on employee pro- environmental behaviour in Public Universities in Kenya.

Conclusion: Green employee involvement had a significant positive influence on employee pro-environmental behaviour in public universities in Kenya.  A combination of strategies befitting each institution and the diverse employee preferences is necessary to enhance employee pro-environmental behaviour. 

Recommendations: The study recommends that universities adopt consistent green engagement strategies, such as regular training and open forums on sustainability. Institutions should also amplify their green corporate social responsibility efforts and consider introducing roles like green champions to inspire active participation. Recognizing the varied responses of employees and the unique contexts of each university is crucial. Furthermore, establishing feedback mechanisms can foster a deeper sense of involvement, ensuring employees feel valued in their green efforts.

Keywords: Climate change, green employee involvement, pro-environmental behaviour, green human resource management.

Author Biographies

Grace M. Odhiambo, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

School of Business and Entrepreneurship, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya

Esther W. Waiganjo, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

School of Business and Entrepreneurship, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya

Alice N. Simiyu, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

School of Business and Entrepreneurship, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya

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Published

2023-08-07

How to Cite

Odhiambo, G. M. ., Waiganjo, E. W. ., & Simiyu, A. N. . (2023). DOES GREEN EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT CATALYSE PRO-ENVIRONMENTAL BEHAVIOUR? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA. African Journal of Emerging Issues, 5(10), 93–111. Retrieved from https://ajoeijournal.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/491

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