From Motivation to Action: The Role of Green Human Resource Management and Public Service Motivation in Promoting a Circular Economy in Cambodia

Considering escalating environmental concerns and the urgent need for sustainable strategies, Cambodian organizations provide a compelling context to explore the dynamic interplay between environmental practices and workforce motivation. This study aimed to examine the relationships between Green Human Resource Management (GHRM), Public Service Motivation (PSM), and the Circular Economy (CE) within Cambodian organizational settings. Utilizing a rigorous quantitative approach, specifically Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), data were collected from 350 diverse employees across various sectors in Cambodia. PLS-SEM is a robust statistical technique that allows for the simultaneous testing of complex relationships, ensuring the validity and reliability of our findings. The results revealed that effective GHRM practices significantly enhance PSM, facilitating the adoption of CE principles. The study underscores the critical role of intrinsic motivation in driving sustainable organizational transformations and positions GHRM as a key enabler of eco-conscious initiatives. It demonstrates that integrating GHRM and PSM can be a powerful catalyst, steering organizations towards a Circular Economy-oriented approach. Despite certain limitations related to the specific Cambodian context, such as cultural and sector-specific factors, the research highlights the need for comprehensive training programs and PSM-centric policies. These findings offer new insights into organizational behaviour and sustainability, providing a novel path forward for organizations in Cambodia and similar emerging economies.