Abstract:
Purpose – The utilisation of market-based approaches (MBAs) than command-control approaches (CCAs) is
still at the embryonic stage to stimulate the green behaviour of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in
developing economies. The study aims to elucidate the association between environmental incentives (EIs),
green responsiveness (GR) and environmental performance (EP).
Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative dominant research design is adopted with qualitative
support. The study model is developed by integrating legitimacy theory (LT) and the natural resource-based
view (NRBV). The cross-sectional data were gathered from the upper echelon of 395 SMEs in Sri Lanka, and 10
subsequent interviews were conducted. The partial least squares approach of structural equation modelling
(PLS-SEM) was used to evaluate the hypothesised relationships.
Findings – The results found evidence to demonstrate that EIs positively link with GR and EP and GR
mediates this association. Further, the study revealed that although MBAs are established, the SME sector is
less aware of EIs such as tax concessions, tax reliefs, low interest, soft loans and discounts on eco-materials.
Practical implications – The results provide valuable insights to enhance environmental sustainability. The
owners of SMEs should strategically use environmental inducements to overcome resource poverty to engage
in green practices. The regulators and policymakers should develop the incentive policies and provide the
mechanisms to disseminate the required skills and technologies to SMEs.
Originality/value – According to the authors’ best knowledge, this is one of the pioneering empirical studies
on EIs, GR and EP with mediating effects in Sri Lanka.
