Enablers of green business process management in the oil and gas sector

Abstract

Purpose: The integration of green business process management (GBPM) to the existing processes of the oil and gas companies (O&G) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can lower environmental damage in the O&G sector (OGS), which causes more environmental hazards than other sectors. Studies suggest that sustainability remains a challenge for GCC O&G companies. In this context, this study assesses the following enablers and subenablers related to GBPM integration in these companies: strategy, management, people and culture, information technology, methods and governance. Design/methodology/approach: Using data from a survey of 12 strategy experts from four GCC O&G companies and the analytical hierarchy process, this study prioritized the key enablers and subenablers driving GBPM. Findings: Strategy was the highest-ranked enabler, followed by management; governance was the lowest-ranked enabler. Measuring green metrics was the highest-priority strategy enabler, and revising responsibilities and management involvement in strategy development were the highest-priority sub-enablers. Practical implications: This study recommends O&G companies to invest in optimizing the existing BPM to enhance process-based decision-making, before GBPM integration. The formation of sustainability groups can bring enablers together to improve sustainability performance. Management and governments must reevaluate their commitment to sustainability while developing policies for the GCC OGS.Originality/value: This study investigated which enablers and subenablers significantly affect GBPM integration in the sector; the results can support researchers and practitioners with the necessary knowledge for future developments.