How Employee Engagement in Green HRM Reduces Plastic Waste in Indonesia’s Food Sector?

This study investigates the role of Green Human Resource Management (Green HRM), particularly employee engagement in sustainability initiatives, in reducing plastic waste within Indonesia’s food manufacturing industry. While prior research has recognised the importance of employee engagement in promoting environmental practices, its specific impact on plastic waste reduction remains underexplored, especially in developing economies. A quantitative research design was used, involving survey data from 272 respondents across 100 food and drink manufacturing firms in Indonesia. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine how employee engagement, along with government regulations, technology innovation, firm size, and industry sub-sector, affects plastic waste reduction. The findings reveal that employee engagement has a significant positive effect on plastic waste reduction, while government regulations and technology innovation also play critical roles in enhancing sustainability efforts. Smaller firms, however, face greater challenges in implementing effective waste reduction practices. The study highlights variations across industry sub-sectors, with dairy production and meat processing demonstrating stronger environmental outcomes than packaged foods. This research provides valuable insights into how Green HRM can drive sustainability, offering practical implications for both policymakers and industry leaders. Future research should explore these dynamics across broader sectors and geographical contexts.