LRN 2016 SPECIAL – the antecedents and consequences of reduction within a supply chain collaboration orientation of CO₂ emissions: evidence from China

ABSTRACT

This paper explores the impact of a predisposition towards supply chain collaboration (SCC) on the reduction of CO₂ emissions, along with its consequences, within the context of a growing recognition of green collaboration. The study draws upon three theoretical lenses, i.e. natural-resource-based view (NRBV), resource dependence theory (RDT) and institutional theory. It conceptualises a research framework in which the underlying constructs are defined and the hypotheses postulated. The empirical investigation was undertaken in China, resulting in data pertaining to 167 companies compiled from a questionnaire survey and subsequently analysed using structural equation modelling. The research findings reveal a causal relationship between two orientations, i.e. SCC orientation and a firm's CO₂ emission reduction orientation, and SCC-led CO₂ emission reduction and its impact on a firm's performance. The study suggests that, in a ‘low-carbon’ business environment, firms can guarantee the engagement of an SCC-led CO₂ emission reduction initiative towards broad environmental sustainability.

KEYWORDS:

• Supply chain collaboration orientation
• firm’s CO₂ emission reduction orientation
• supply chain management
• China

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank the anonymous reviewers and the editors for their constructive suggestions for improving the paper.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Funding

This study is being supported by Beijing Natural Science Foundation (9162015) and National Social Science Foundation of China (No.15BGL002).