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Redimensioning the Theory of Planned Behavior on Workplace Energy Saving Intention: The Mediating Role of Environmental Knowledge and Organizational Culture

Author

Listed:
  • Luis J. Camacho

    (School of Business, Empire State University, New York, NY 10013, USA)

  • Moises Banks

    (School of Economic and Business Sciences, APEC University, Santo Domingo 10100, Dominican Republic)

  • Satesh Sookhai

    (Department of Management Studies, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine BB11000, Trinidad and Tobago)

  • Emely Concepción

    (School of Economic and Business Sciences, APEC University, Santo Domingo 10100, Dominican Republic)

Abstract

This study extends the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to examine the factors influencing the employees’ intentions to save energy in the workplace (INSER), incorporating organizational culture (ORGCULT) and environmental knowledge (ENVKNOW) as mediating variables. Structural equation modeling (SEM) of survey data reveals that attitudes toward energy saving (ATESs) and perceived behavioral control (PERBCON) significantly predict INSER, while subjective norms (SUBNORMS) do not exert a direct effect. ORGCULT emerges as a strong mediator, highlighting its role in translating pro-environmental attitudes into actionable intentions. In contrast, ENVKNOW does not mediate the examined relationships, challenging the assumption that knowledge alone is sufficient to drive energy-saving behavior. These findings suggest that organizational commitment and leadership engagement exert a greater influence than peer norms or informational efforts in shaping sustainable workplace behaviors. From a practical perspective, the study underscores the importance of cultivating a sustainability-oriented organizational culture, implementing structural supports, and employing behavioral interventions beyond traditional awareness campaigns. Theoretically, it refines the TPB by illustrating that institutional factors may precede normative pressures in professional settings. Overall, the research contributes to the corporate sustainability literature by advocating for leadership-driven engagement strategies and policy-level interventions to promote long-term energy efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Luis J. Camacho & Moises Banks & Satesh Sookhai & Emely Concepción, 2025. "Redimensioning the Theory of Planned Behavior on Workplace Energy Saving Intention: The Mediating Role of Environmental Knowledge and Organizational Culture," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(8), pages 1-25, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:8:p:3574-:d:1635614
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    References listed on IDEAS

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