The Role of Human Resources Function in Promoting Sustainability on Oil and Gas Industry

Abstract

This article presents the level of awareness among Human Resources managers and professionals of an Austrian oil and gas company with regards to Green Human Resource Management (GHRM). This is an approach with focus on integrating environmental sustainability practices into various HR functions within an organization. In addition, it recognizes that HR plays a crucial role in promoting and supporting sustainability by aligning the related policies and practices when it comes to talent attraction and retention, diversity, equity and non-discrimination or training and organizational effectiveness. To collect the data, a qualitative research methodology was used. We aimed to deep dive on how the Human Resources function integrates the environmental, social and economic sustainability principles into the practices, policies and strategies of the organization. Thus, such actions involve long-term impact HR decisions and actions on the environment, society and on the overall well-being of employees and stakeholders. The theoretical framework of the article is based on how corporate sustainability is integrated as a component of the overall business and Human Resources strategy. Interviews in the area of Talent attraction and Retention (Recruitment), Diversity, equity and non-discrimination and Training and Organizational Effectiveness were conducted in order to deep dive on the synergies between sustainability and HR strategy approach. The finding of the study confirms that there is a relationship between the presence of GHRM and corporate sustainability in the Austrian oil and gas company where the interviews were conducted. The HR managers and professionals are aware of Green Human Resources Management, however there is space for improvement in building the right business capabilities for a sustainable environment. In this respect, organizations should implement strategic human resources management policies based on Green Human Resources Management concept, with more focus on selecting, developing and retaining green employees. By integrating sustainability principles into HR principles, organizations can contribute to a more sustainable and responsible future while fostering a positive workplace culture that attracts, develops and maintains top talents.