Conceptual Fragmentation in Green Human Resource Management: A Bibliometric Analysis of Its Path Toward Theoretical Integration

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to systematically map the intellectual, thematic, and temporal development of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) research and examine its conceptual maturity within the broader HRM domain.

Design/Methodology/Approach. A bibliometric analysis was conducted on 1,426 publications indexed in Scopus from 2011 to 2025. Using VOSviewer, the study applies keyword co-occurrence and bibliographic coupling techniques to identify major research clusters, thematic evolution, and intellectual structures within the GHRM literature.

Findings. The development of GHRM scholarship shows a transition from system-level integration toward behavioural and psychological mechanisms, which indicates theoretical consolidation despite persistent fragmentation. Four distinct research clusters were identified: (1) foundational GHRM and sustainability HRM integration, (2) leadership, culture, and employee pro-environmental behaviour, (3) behavioural mechanisms and psychological drivers of green actions, and (4) reviews, models, and measurement development. Temporal analysis reveals a shift from structural HR systems to micro-level behavioural and psychological processes.

 Research Limitations. This review is limited to Scopus-indexed sources, which may exclude relevant publications from other databases. Future studies should incorporate broader datasets and diverse methodological approaches.

Practical Implications. This study provides a theory-based diagnosis of fragmentation, offering guidance for developing coherent GHRM constructs into a unified theoretical foundation to support more effective sustainability-oriented HR practices.

Originality/Value. This study extends existing literature by integrating bibliometric analysis with construct development theory to assess the maturity of GHRM, providing a structured and theory-driven perspective on its evolution and future research directions.

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