Impact of Green HRM on Sustainable Human Resource Practices and Employee Mental Well-Being in Educational Institutions

Abstract

Increased recognition of mental health, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, has placed employee well-being at the centre of Human Resource Management (HRM). While HRM has gained significant momentum in recent years, research on employee well-being (EWB) and mental health within HRM remains limited. This study examines the relationship between Green Human Resource Management practices and employee well-being, focusing on mental and physical health, thereby contributing to social sustainability. A survey was conducted with 140 academic staff members from higher education institutions in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The findings indicate that Green HRM practices, including green recruitment, training, recognition, and eco-friendly workplace initiatives, significantly improve employee satisfaction, mental health, and overall well-being. Additionally, the study highlights the moderating effect of resource commitment in strengthening this relationship. A conceptual model is proposed to illustrate the link between Green HRM practices and employee well-being. This research contributes to the HRM literature by emphasising the strategic importance of sustainability in fostering healthier, more motivated employees and offers practical insights for higher education institutions aiming to adopt Green HRM strategies for long-term organisational success.