The Concept of Green HRM (GHRM)

Green Human Resource Management is the integration of environmental management into HRM. It aims to transform every employee into a "green employee" by aligning their personal values with the organization's environmental goals.

1. Green Recruitment and Onboarding: Sustainable companies are winning the "war for talent."

• Employer Branding: Communicating the company's "Purpose" clearly.
• Selection: Assessing candidates' environmental attitudes during interviews.
• Onboarding: Providing new hires with reusable kits and training on the company’s zero-waste policies.

2. Green Training & Competency Mapping: Companies are now mapping "Green Competencies"—the specific skills needed for a low-carbon economy (e.g., carbon accounting for accountants, or sustainable sourcing for procurement officers). Training programs focus on energy efficiency, waste segregation, and environmental compliance.

3. Green Performance Management & Rewards:

• KPIs: Including environmental metrics in performance reviews (e.g., "Reduced department paper use by 20%").
• Incentives: Offering rewards for carpooling, using public transit, or suggesting innovative energy-saving ideas.
• The "Social" Element: Sustainable HRM also includes "Human Sustainability"—preventing burnout, ensuring psychological safety, and promoting lifelong learning.

Case Study: Patagonia

Patagonia’s HR policies reflect its mission. They provide on-site childcare (Social), encourage employees to volunteer for environmental causes (Environmental), and have a "let my people go surfing" policy to promote well-being (Social). This has led to industry-low turnover rates.