How Does Green Intellectual Capital Become Firm Competitive Advantages in China's Economic New Normal Stage?

Pan Chulin, Tian Hong

Journal of Shanghai University of Finance and Economics Vol. 18, Issue 02, pp. 77 - 90 (2016)  DOI:10.16538/j.cnki.jsufe.2016.02.007

Abstract

Green intellectual capital in China's economic new normal stage and environmental constraints is the key to firms' soft competing power. It is a problem to be solved that how firms can construct their competitive advantages through the accumulation and use of green intellectual capital. This paper explores the mechanism of the effect of green intellectual capital on firm competitive advantages based on natural resource-based view (NRBV) theory and knowledge management theory. Based on an analysis of 254 questionnaires from department managers in manufacturing firms, it shows that green intellectual capital can strengthen the firms'competitive advantages through the mediating effect of green innovation. Absorptive capacity and knowledge sharing can positively moderate the effect of green intellectual capital on green innovation, and further enhance the mediating role of green innovation. Therefore, in the process of green intellectual capital accumulation and building competitive advantages, firms should value the key role of green innovation and the indirect effect of absorptive capacity and knowledge sharing. This paper provides enterprise managers with reference basis of implementing green innovation effectively and building competitive advantages, help them to achieve green development, innovative development and sustainable development in China's economic "new normal" stage, and create greater value.

Keywords

green intellectual capital; green innovation; firm competitive advantage; absorptive capacity; knowledge sharing