Islamic bankers' green behaviour for the growth of green banking in Malaysia

Abstract

Rising concerns for environmental sustainability (ES) demand that Islamic finance converts its business model to ethical finance. The conversion of a business model is unattainable without employees' positive attitudes and willingness to adopt the green banking approach. This study aims to promote ES implications for Islamic bankers and encourage Islamic banks to adopt a similar approach. The main objective is to explore green behaviours among Islamic bankers and the influence of these behaviours on green banking growth in Malaysia. Data were collected from 55 Islamic bankers using a survey questionnaire. The findings show that Islamic bankers' inclusive green behaviour significantly influences green banking growth. All five types of green behaviours (e.g., conservation, work sustainability, avoiding harm, influencing others and taking initiative) have a significant positive impact on green banking growth. Regulators and policymakers may adopt these findings to develop green banking regulations in Malaysia and other locations with similar economic settings.