Green Knowledge Management Drives Sustainable Innovation and Performance in Construction

Why It Matters

In the construction sector, where environmental impact is substantial, effectively managing and disseminating knowledge related to sustainable practices and technologies is crucial. This research highlights that a strategic approach to 'going green' through knowledge management can lead to tangible improvements in both environmental responsibility and business outcomes.

Key Finding

The study found that actively managing knowledge about green practices and technologies directly leads to more green innovations and better sustainable outcomes in construction firms. This effect is amplified when firms invest in their green intellectual capital, and AI can further boost the development of green human capital through knowledge management.

Key Findings

• Green knowledge management (GKM) has a significant positive impact on green technological innovation (GTI).
• Green knowledge management (GKM) has a significant positive impact on sustainable performance.
• Green intellectual capital (GIC) aspects (structural, relational, and human capital) mediate the relationship between GKM and GTI.
• GIC aspects also mediate the relationship between GKM and sustainable performance.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) moderates the relationship between GKM and green human capital (GHC).

Research Evidence

Aim: To investigate how green knowledge management influences green technological innovation and sustainable performance within construction organizations, and to explore the moderating role of artificial intelligence on the relationship between green knowledge management and green human capital.

Method: Quantitative survey research with structural equation modeling.

Procedure: Data was collected via questionnaires from 309 construction firms. Statistical software (AMOS-24 and SPSS PROCESS macro) was used to analyze the data and test the proposed relationships, including mediation and moderation effects.

Sample Size: 309 construction firms

Context: Construction industry in Pakistan

Design Principle

Knowledge is a critical resource for driving sustainable innovation and performance.

How to Apply

Develop a framework for capturing, sharing, and utilizing knowledge related to sustainable materials, processes, and technologies within your organization. Encourage cross-functional teams to collaborate on green initiatives and document lessons learned.

Limitations

The study was conducted in a specific geographical context (Pakistan), which may limit the generalizability of findings to other regions or construction markets with different regulatory environments and cultural norms. The reliance on self-reported data through questionnaires may introduce common method bias.

Student Guide (IB Design Technology)

Simple Explanation: Companies that are good at managing information about being 'green' (like eco-friendly materials or energy-saving methods) tend to invent more environmentally friendly technologies and perform better in terms of sustainability. AI can help make this knowledge sharing even better for people.

Why This Matters: Understanding how knowledge management impacts green innovation is vital for designing products and systems that are both effective and environmentally responsible.

Critical Thinking: To what extent can the findings regarding AI's moderating role be generalized across different types of industries and organizational structures, beyond the construction sector?

IA-Ready Paragraph: This research indicates that effective green knowledge management is a significant driver for both green technological innovation and sustainable performance within organizations. By strategically managing information related to environmental best practices and technologies, firms can foster a culture of innovation that leads to more sustainable outcomes.

Project Tips

• When researching sustainable design, consider how knowledge is shared and used within the design or manufacturing process.
• Investigate how organizations are currently managing information related to environmental impact and sustainability.

How to Use in IA

• Reference this study when discussing the importance of knowledge management in achieving sustainable design outcomes or when exploring strategies for green innovation in your design project.

Examiner Tips

• Demonstrate an understanding of how organizational processes, like knowledge management, can directly influence the success of sustainable design initiatives.

Independent Variable: Green Knowledge Management (GKM)

Dependent Variable: Green Technological Innovation (GTI) and Sustainable Performance

Controlled Variables: Green Intellectual Capital (GIC) aspects (green structural capital, green relational capital, green human capital), Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Strengths

• Empirical evidence provided for the theoretical link between GKM, GTI, and sustainable performance.
• Investigates the mediating role of GIC and the moderating role of AI, offering a more nuanced understanding.

Critical Questions

• How can the 'green' aspects of knowledge be effectively codified and transferred within an organization?
• What are the specific AI applications that most effectively enhance green knowledge management and green human capital development?

Extended Essay Application

• An Extended Essay could explore the development of a prototype system for green knowledge management within a specific design context, measuring its potential impact on innovation and sustainability metrics.

Source

Green knowledge management: A key driver of green technology innovation and sustainable performance in the construction organizations · Journal of Innovation & Knowledge · 2023 · 10.1016/j.jik.2023.100455