Green supply chain management as a competitive strategy in the South African mining sector: An empirical assessment

Abstract

This study seeks to investigate green supply chain management (GSCM) methods and their impact on enterprise performance in the South African mining industry.  The study specifically examines the mediating influence of organisational factors—employee job satisfaction, operational efficiency, and relational efficiency—in mining businesses located in Rustenburg, Northwest Province. A quantitative research design was employed with a designed survey questionnaire disseminated to supply chain management departments in two platinum mining firms.  The research model connected GSCM practices to enterprise performance, mediated by three organisational characteristics.  The data analysis encompassed reliability and validity assessments, succeeded by correlational analysis and multiple regression models to evaluate the hypotheses. The findings indicated a statistically significant correlation between the deployment of GSCM practices and organisational performance.  The study further established that employee job satisfaction, operational efficiency, and relational efficiency significantly moderate this link.  The findings indicate that the use of GSCM directly improves performance and indirectly boosts essential organisational dynamics.The research offers empirical evidence endorsing the strategic incorporation of GSCM processes within the mining industry.  It underscores the significance of concentrating on internal organisational elements to optimise the advantages of GSCM implementation.  Mining companies can enhance their sustainability and overall performance by emphasising employee satisfaction and operational teamwork. This study enhances the sparse empirical literature on Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) within the mining sector, specifically in the sub-Saharan African context.  Incorporating organisational mediators provides a deeper view of how Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) influences company performance, offering useful insights for both scholars and practitioners seeking to link sustainability with commercial objectives.

Authors & affiliations

Tshepo Phuti Mabotja
University of South Africa (UNISA)

Abednigo Ngcobo
University of South Africa (UNISA)

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