Role of environmental corporate social responsibility and green information technology in the environmental performance of the UAE manufacturing industry

Purpose The study aims to examine the mediating role of green information technology capital in the relationship between the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) manufacturing firms’ environmental corporate social responsibility (ECSR) and environmental performance. Design/methodology/approach Primary data were collected from a questionnaire administered to 491 managers of manufacturing firms in the UAE. Data analysis was performed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The findings indicated that capital allocated for green information technology (GIT) meets stakeholders’ demands for environmental preservation and, consequently, achieves a competitive advantage. Businesses that prioritize ECSR will benefit from GIT investments in pro-environmental strategies and practices. The GIT serves as a bridge between environmental and social capital responsibility and enhances environmental performance. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is among the first to examine issues related to corporate social responsibility, GIT capital and environmental performance/awareness in the UAE. The study will help policymakers, practitioners and researchers understand how these relevant issues affect the UAE’s manufacturing sector.