Environmental sustainability has become a critical concern for businesses worldwide, yet Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) often face challenges in adopting sustainable supply chain practices. This study examined the knowledge, attitude, and application of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices among selected SMEs in Southeast Nigeria, focusing on Abia, Enugu, and Imo States. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving 382 purposively selected respondents, using questionnaires and interviews to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative analysis indicated a moderate level of knowledge of GSCM (overall mean = 3.07/5), with respondents demonstrating awareness of environmental integration in supply chain operations but showing gaps in understanding its broader strategic scope. Qualitative findings revealed that SMEs generally associate GSCM with basic environmental responsibility rather than comprehensive supply chain strategies. Implementation of GSCM practices was low, with only 6% of firms actively applying them, while 77.2% reported no implementation. The study concludes that despite moderate awareness, practical adoption of GSCM in SMEs is minimal. It recommends targeted training, sensitization programs, and strengthened regulatory enforcement to enhance GSCM integration.
Keywords: Green Supply Chain Management, Institutional Theory, Resource-Based View, SMEs, Southeast Nigeria, stakeholder theory, sustainable practices
