Aligning Employee Engagement with SDGs: A Green Leadership Approach

Abstract

As organizations increasingly align their operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the role of green leadership in fostering employee engagement towards these objectives becomes crucial. This qualitative study investigates the intersection of leadership practices, human resource management, and sustainability initiatives to propose a framework for integrating SDG awareness and action into organizational culture. Through a systematic review of secondary sources, including peer-reviewed articles, industry reports, and case studies of sustainability-focused organizations, we synthesize insights from diverse sectors and geographical contexts. The research aims to identify common themes and best practices in green leadership that effectively promote employee engagement with SDGs. Findings reveal a strong correlation between robust green leadership practices and heightened employee engagement in SDG-related initiatives. Key factors include transparent communication of sustainability goals, employee empowerment in decision-making, and recognition systems aligned with SDG achievements. The study uncovers innovative strategies such as integrating SDG literacy into professional development, aligning performance metrics with sustainability targets, and utilizing digital platforms to track SDG progress. The analysis underscores the significance of authenticity in green leadership, demonstrating that leaders who consistently embody sustainability principles are more effective in inspiring genuine employee buy-in. This research contributes to the discourse on sustainable human resource management and offers practical insights for organizations aiming to mobilize their workforce in pursuit of SDG targets. By illuminating the connections between green leadership, employee engagement, and progress towards SDGs, our study emphasizes the strategic importance of human capital in driving global sustainability efforts. The findings provide a foundation for future empirical research and offer a roadmap for organizations seeking to cultivate a culture of sustainability through effective green leadership practices.