A Systematic Review of AI Adoption in Green HRM

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping the landscape of Human Resource Management (HRM), particularly in advancing environmentally sustainable practices under the umbrella of Green HRM. As digitalisation accelerates and environmental pressures intensify, the strategic use of AI in HRM has become a topic of growing scholarly interest. However, existing research remains fragmented, especially regarding how AI is operationalised in Green HR initiatives, what themes emerge, and which contextual factors influence its adoption. This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to synthesise current academic discourse and examine the contribution of AI to Green HRM. Specifically, it addresses three research questions: (1) How is AI being applied in Green HRM practices? (2) What are the main themes and patterns emerging from the literature on AI and Green HRM? (3) What contextual factors influence the integration of AI into Green HRM initiatives? Guided by the PICo framework, the review focuses on Green HR practices (Problem), AI applications (Interest), and organisational environments (Context). A comprehensive database search was conducted across Scopus, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, SpringerLink, Emerald Insight, and Google Scholar. The PRISMA 2020 methodology was employed to ensure rigour in identification, screening, and inclusion. A total of 172 peer-reviewed journal articles (2019–2025) were reviewed. Findings reveal key themes, including AI-driven green recruitment, digital learning systems, ethical concerns, leadership influence, and implementation barriers such as infrastructure and institutional readiness. This SLR offers valuable insights to inform future academic inquiry and guide practitioners and policymakers in embedding AI within sustainable HRM strategies.

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