International orientation and environmental performance in Vietnamese exporting small- and medium-sized enterprises

Abstract

Despite the burgeoning literature on environmental management, research is scarce on the impact of international orientation (IO) on environmental performance. This study investigates the impact of IO on environmental performance through the mediating mechanism of environmental commitment. In addition, the paper examines the moderating role of stakeholder pressure. Using data collected from 332 firms engaged in exporting activities in Vietnam, this study finds that a firm's level of IO is positively related to its environmental commitment. The results also show that environmental commitment mediates the relationship between IO and environmental performance. Finally, this research finds that the positive effect of environmental commitment on environmental performance is moderated by stakeholder green pressure. These findings theoretically contribute to the environmental management literature and practically extend our knowledge of how IO enhances environmental performance.