The Impact of Ethical Leadership on Corporate Green Innovation—The Mediating Role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

With the elevation of global sustainable development and carbon neutrality goals, green innovation has become a critical factor for businesses to gain a sustainable advantage in global competition. However, the specific mechanisms of ethical leadership in the performance of corporate green innovation have not been thoroughly investigated in academia. This study is based on data from Chinese listed companies between 2011 and 2020, employing quantitative research methods, utilizing tools such as OLS models, to delve into the impact pathway of ethical leadership on the performance of corporate green innovation. The study reveals that ethical leadership has a significantly positive impact on the performance of corporate green innovation. There exists a positive correlation between the ethical values and decision-making styles of the top management team and the performance of green innovation, providing clear theoretical guidance for decision-makers in businesses. Furthermore, the study identifies the mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the relationship between ethical leadership and the performance of green innovation. Ethical leadership, by actively promoting the fulfillment of social responsibilities, indirectly facilitates better performance in green innovation for companies. This emphasizes the intrinsic connection between ethical leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility, providing a scientific basis for businesses to formulate strategies in the field of green innovation.