Barriers to environmentally-conscious manufacturing innovation

This study explores the barriers to environmentally-conscious innovation of manufacturing firms. Gleaned via a survey from 333 manufacturing firms in Pakistan, and analyzed through a partial least-squares technique, the data show that organizational resources, resistance to change, business traditions and technical issues appear to be the internal barriers to environmentally-conscious innovation. Conversely, extant policies, shortage of consumer demand, shortage of external affiliation, uncertain benefits and shortage of information seem to be the external barriers to environmentally-conscious innovation, which must also be addressed. These findings have significant implications for manufacturing management and, despite its limitations, the study offers pragmatic policymaking guidelines and future research suggestions.