Institutional pressures and environmental innovations of manufacturing firms in Uganda

Abstract

Abstract Purpose – This study aims to investigate the predictive power of institutional pressures (IP)—including coercive, normative, and mimetic influences—on environmental innovations (EI) within medium and large (M&L) manufacturing firms operating in Uganda. Design/methodology/approach – This quantitative study gathered data through structured surveys from key stakeholdersin Uganda’s manufacturing sector, involving 208 firms across diverse regions. Utilizing SmartPLS Version 4, Structural Equation Modeling was applied to examine the correlation between IP and EI. Findings – Our analysis reveals the significant influence of IP on EI in Uganda’s M&L manufacturing firms. While regulatory mandatestheoretically relate to EI, our findingssuggest no statistically significant association. Conversely, societal norms and mimetic pressures positively impact EI. Notably, mimetic pressures exhibit the strongest predictive potential, followed closely by normative pressures. Research limitations/implications – Our findings highlight the significant impact of mimetic and normative pressures on EI in Uganda’s industrial sector. Policymakers and business leaders can utilize these pressures to fosterindustry-wide innovations and align strategies with societal values, complementing coercive pressuresfor regulatory compliance. Originality/value – Thisstudy provides new insightsinto how IP drive EIin Uganda’s manufacturing sector.By clarifying the roles of coercive, normative, and mimetic pressures, it guides policymakers and business leaders in enhancing environmental initiatives.