Green Management Practices and Their Influence on Environmental Sustainability in Small-Scale Industries: Evidence from Madurai District

Abstract

In the current scenario where environmental pollution, environmental scarcity, and pollution from industry are on the rise, environmental sustainability has come into focus for industries. The present study investigated influence of green management methods on environmental sustainability in small scale industries in Madurai. The paper emphasized on key green management elements like green manufacturing practices, waste management system, energy efficiency practices, green supply chain methods and environmental training and awareness. The method used in this study was quantitative research through the survey technique using a structured questionnaire to employees, supervisors and managers in small industries. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and SPSS techniques were utilised to examine the data. The results showed that green management practices (GMP’s) have significant impacts on environmental sustainability and sustainable industrial performance. The most positive impacts on environmental sustainability were in the areas of green manufacturing practices, followed by waste management and green supply chain practices. The findings also showed that the impact of energy efficiency measures and employee environmental commitment on environmental performance and industrial sustainability is positive. The study also showed that environmentally responsible industrial practices lead to decreased pollution, better use of resources, increased operational efficiency, and better overall competitiveness of industries in the long-term. It was found that employee environment awareness and participation have important mediating roles in the successful implementation of a green management system. The results of the study indicate the need for implementing green management methods in SMEs in order to secure sustainable development of industry and ecological balance. The study builds on the current body of knowledge in the field of environmental management and provides practical suggestions for industrial managers and policy-makers on the need to encourage small-scale industries to adopt sustainable-oriented industrial practices.