A structural model of the impact of green intellectual capital on sustainable performance

This study examined the relationship between green intellectual capital and sustainable performance. While many studies have focused on sustainability, this study is one of the first that focuses exclusively on green intellectual capital. This research used survey data from 112 manufacturing firms in Malaysia. As anticipated, the results found that green intellectual capital positively influenced economic, environmental, and social performance. The findings of this study have various implications for green companies and organizations in general and green manufacturing firms in particular. The novelty of this study is unfolding the contribution of green intellectual capital as an intangible resource for organizations in achieving sustainable performance and a competitive advantage for future researchers. Manufacturing industries of developing or developed countries can enhance their cleaner production capabilities by incorporating this model as a strategy. •The relationship between green intellectual capital and sustainable performance was explored.•Intellectual Capital-based View Theory was used as a theoretical foundation.•Green intellectual capital was found to have a positive relationship with sustainable performance.•Green intellectual capital was highlighted in creating cleaner production in the manufacturing industry.