The greyer the greener : CEO age and green innovation

Abstract

Amidst conflicting perspectives on the impact of CEO age on the adoption of risky strategies with long-term environmental consequences, this study investigates the relation between CEO age and green innovation performance. Leveraging a 12-year dataset of Chinese listed firms, we find that older CEOs promote higher levels of green innovation than their younger counterparts. This effect is more pronounced in firms with intense industry competition, extensive green coverage, high media visibility, state-owned status, and restricted managerial ownership. We identify increased CEO power, enhanced managerial ability, and environmental consciousness as potential mechanisms through which older CEOs influence green innovation. Our research underscores the importance of understanding underlying strategic decisions in assessing the impact of managerial traits. Policymakers may consider implementing measures to retain and recruit older CEOs within organizations to bolster sustainability initiatives.