The urgency for gender diversity on boards to shift into sustainable development and green HRM

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to extend the existing literature review by providing further information on the relation between: the radical need to achieve gender diversity on boards to shift into sustainable development and Green HRM. Although these are very well known and researched topics in the Management and HRM literature, not much correlation exists and limited studies have been conducted to identify the relation between the above topics. It is very important to investigate this gap and to further research this relation as these topics have been of high importance during the last two decades and their correlation will be beneficial for the literature gap. Lastly, it is anticipated that this study will be helpful for developing and gaining further understanding and knowledge on this relation and will offer a new perspective on the researched question. Methodology The present qualitative research represents an extent of the existing bibliography. It explores the subject through available research such as academic and professional journals as well as publications. The focus is on evidence that has relevance on achieving sustainable development and on the impact on that progress that organizations without a gender diverse board have, whilst exploring the new trend of Green HRM. The research is based on a global level but it focuses on the European Union and its member states. Findings The results of this study confirm previous research, which demonstrates that achieving gender diversity on boards could be beneficial for corporations and their sustainable development. Moreover, they confirm that the long-lasting battle for gender diversity affects the promotion of sustainability as well. Additionally, the findings show that the boardroom quotas are not the only way towards achieving gender equality in the boards of directors, but HR processes hold a crucial role on the matter as well.