Greening the workplace: Exploring digital transformation and self-efficacy in Vietnamese logistics industry

Abstract

This study develops and tests a theoretical model examining the interplay between digital transformation, green self-efficacy, and green innovative work behavior (GIWB) within Vietnamese logistics enterprises. Drawing on Bandura’s self-efficacy theory, we hypothesize that digital transformation initiatives positively influence both green innovative work behavior and green self-efficacy among employees. Additionally, we propose a positive relationship between green self-efficacy and green innovative work behavior, with green self-efficacy mediating the relationship between digital transformation and green innovative work behavior. Data were collected from 328 full-time employees across diverse logistics sectors in Vietnam through a time-lagged survey conducted in two phases. The research hypotheses were tested using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SPSS 21 and AMOS 24, employing confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis with bias-corrected bootstrapping. Results confirm that digital transformation significantly enhances both GIWB and green self-efficacy while green self-efficacy positively influences GIWB and mediates the digital transformation–GIWB relationship. These findings support all proposed hypotheses, highlighting the pivotal role of digital tools in fostering sustainable innovation and psychological empowerment in logistics settings. This study advances the theoretical understanding of GIWB by elucidating how digital transformation drives eco-friendly behaviors through green self-efficacy, offering a novel application of self-efficacy theory in sustainability research. Practically, it provides actionable insights for logistics managers to integrate digital solutions and training to boost green practices, and for policymakers to incentivize green technology adoption. By addressing Vietnam’s unique context of rapid digitalization and sustainability goals, this research underscores the logistics industry’s potential to contribute to environmental responsibility and sustainable development.