158 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers 1 Received: 29th October 2024; Accepted: 25th April 2025 Dynamic Capabilities and Environmental Performance of High-Tech SMEs in Pakistan – The Role of Eco-Innovation and Female Executives Rameen NIAMAT 1 , Fayyaz Hussain QURESHI 2 1 QA Higher Education, Lecturer/Dissertation Supervisor, London, UK, rameenniamat97@gmail.com 2 University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), PGR (Doctoral) Supervisor, Lampeter, UK, f.qureshi@uwtsd.ac.uk Background/Purpose: This study examines the relationship between dynamic capabilities (DCs) and environmen- tal performance (EP) in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan, focusing on the key dimensions of sensing, seizing, and recon- figuration. Additionally, it explores the mediating role of environmental innovation (EI) and the moderating effect of female leadership on this relationship. Methods: A quantitative research approach was employed, using a structured questionnaire distributed among male and female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), senior management personnel, and executives in high-tech SMEs. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to assess the relationships between DCs, environmental innovation, and environmental performance. Results: The findings indicate that seizing capabilities significantly enhances environmental performance, with a one-point increase leading to a 0.282-point improvement. Similarly, reconfiguration contributes positively, with a one-point increase resulting in a 0.227-point improvement. Both process innovation (path coefficient = 0.384, p = 0.001) and product innovation (path coefficient = 0.157, p = 0.043) positively influence environmental performance. However, female leadership did not exhibit a significant direct effect on environmental performance. Notably, fe- male moderators negatively impacted the relationship between process innovation and environmental performance (-0.328), suggesting that in lower hierarchical positions, female inclusion may reduce the effectiveness of process innovation in achieving sustainability goals. Conclusions: The study provides empirical evidence on the role of dynamic capabilities and environmental inno - vation in enhancing sustainability in high-tech SMEs. It highlights the need for firms to strengthen their seizing and reconfiguration capabilities to improve environmental performance. Additionally, eco-innovation should be encour- aged, and gender diversity in leadership should be strategically considered when designing innovation and sustain - ability strategies. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and industry practitioners aiming to foster sustainable business practices in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. Keywords: Dynamic capabilities, Environmental performance, High-Tech SMEs, Eco-Innovation, Female leadership DOI: 10.2478/orga-2025-0010 1 Introduction The increasing urgency of environmental sustainabil- ity has prompted organisations across industries to inte- grate eco-innovation and sustainability-driven strategies into their operations. Sustainable business practices are crucial to long-term success as companies strive to align their strategic goals with environmental and social respon- 159 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers sibilities (Esty & Winston, 2009; Lubin & Esty, 2010). The dynamic business environment demands that organisations develop capabilities to sense and respond to external pres- sures, including regulatory changes, consumer prefer- ences, and technological advancements (Teece, 2007). In this regard, dynamic capabilities (DCs) serve as a critical theoretical framework, explaining how organisations can adapt, innovate, and remain competitive while pursuing environmental sustainability (Eisenhardt & Martin, 2000; Zollo & Winter, 2002). Despite growing scholarly interest in dynamic capabil- ities and their role in fostering environmental performance (Reyes-Santiago et al., 2019; Dangelico & Pontrandolfo, 2015), empirical research remains limited in certain geo- graphical contexts. Specifically, there is a lack of research investigating the impact of the three primary dimensions of dynamic capabilities—sensing, seizing, and reconfigu- ration—on environmental performance in emerging econ- omies such as Pakistan (Eikelenboom & de Jong, 2019). This study aims to bridge this gap by examining how high-tech small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan leverage dynamic capabilities to enhance their environmental performance. Additionally, eco-innovation has been identified as a potential mediator between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance, as organisations that em- brace innovation-driven environmental strategies tend to achieve superior sustainability outcomes (Costantini et al., 2017; Arranz et al., 2020). However, the moderating role of female leadership in this relationship remains underex- plored. Research suggests that gender diversity in lead- ership can influence corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability efforts (Glass et al., 2016; Liu et al., 2022). This study investigates whether female executives strengthen or weaken the connection between dynamic capabilities, eco-innovation, and environmental performance. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on dynamic capabilities and environmental performance by providing empirical evidence from the high-tech sector in Pakistan. The research employs a quantitative method- ology using structured questionnaires, allowing for statis- tical analysis of the relationships among dynamic capa- bilities, eco-innovation, and environmental performance. The findings offer valuable implications for businesses and policymakers, emphasising the need for strategic invest- ments in eco-innovation and dynamic capabilities while considering the influence of gender diversity in leadership. Next, we present the theoretical background that un- derpins our study. We explore a variety of topics that are essential for understanding the framework and context of our research. Dynamic Capabilities and Environmental Performance The dynamic capabilities framework, introduced by Teece et al. (1997), posits that organisations achieve and sustain competitive advantage by continuously adapting and reconfiguring their resources in response to changing environmental conditions. Dynamic capabilities consist of three core elements: sensing opportunities, seizing them, and reconfiguring organisational resources to maintain competitiveness (Teece, 2007). Scholars argue that these capabilities enable organisations to pursue environmental sustainability, facilitating eco-innovation integration into business strategies (Helfat & Peteraf, 2003; Buzzao & Riz- zi, 2021). Empirical studies suggest that organisations with well-developed dynamic capabilities are more likely to engage in proactive environmental strategies, thereby im- proving their environmental performance (Eikelenboom & de Jong, 2019). Specifically, sensing allows organisations to identify market trends and regulatory changes related to sustainability, seizing enables them to capitalise on eco-friendly innovations, and reconfiguration ensures con- tinuous adaptation to new environmental challenges (Rey- es-Santiago et al., 2019). This study explores how these three dimensions of dynamic capabilities impact environ- mental performance within high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. Eco-Innovation as a Mediator Eco-innovation refers to developing and implementing new products, services, or business practices that reduce environmental impact while maintaining economic via- bility (Dangelico et al., 2017; Qi et al., 2013). Scholars emphasise that eco-innovation is a crucial mechanism through which dynamic capabilities contribute to environ- mental performance (Costantini et al., 2017). Firms that integrate eco-innovation into their business models can achieve greater resource efficiency, regulatory compliance, and competitive differentiation (Arranz et al., 2020). Recent research highlights the mediating role of eco-innovation in linking dynamic capabilities to envi- ronmental outcomes. For instance, organisations that ef- fectively sense environmental challenges are more likely to invest in eco-innovation, enhancing their environmental performance (Cai & Li, 2018). Similarly, organisations with strong reconfiguration capabilities can align techno- logical advancements with sustainability goals, providing more substantial environmental benefits (Dangelico et al., 2017). This study examines whether eco-innovation me- diates the relationship between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance in high-tech SMEs. 160 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers The Moderating Role of Female Leadership The role of female leadership in corporate sustainabil- ity has gained significant attention in recent years (Post et al., 2011; Liu et al., 2022). Research suggests that female executives prioritise ethical considerations, corporate so- cial responsibility, and environmental initiatives more than their male counterparts (Glass et al., 2016). However, the extent to which female leadership moderates the impact of dynamic capabilities on environmental performance re- mains largely unexplored. Studies indicate that gender-diverse leadership teams are more likely to adopt sustainability-oriented strategies, foster innovation, and drive long-term environmental goals (Boulouta, 2013; García-Granero et al., 2018). However, some scholars argue that structural and cultural barriers may limit the effectiveness of female executives in shap- ing environmental performance outcomes (Eagly & Jo- hannesen‐Schmidt, 2001). This study investigates whether female executives moderate the relationship between dy- namic capabilities and environmental performance, par- ticularly through the lens of eco-innovation. Dynamic Capabilities, Eco-Innovation, and Environmental Performance: Hypotheses Development This section delves into the development of hypothe- ses, drawing upon existing literature and theoretical frame- works to examine the relationships between dynamic ca- pabilities, eco-innovation, environmental performance, and the moderating role of female executives. Dynamic Capabilities and Environmental Performance Dynamic capabilities are crucial for navigating the complexities of sustainability in a rapidly changing envi- ronment (Arend, 2014; O’Neil & Usbasaran, 2016). They provide firms the adaptive flexibility needed for continuous modifications and improvements (Arend, 2014; Chen & Chang, 2013). Research has shown a positive link between dynamic capabilities and firm performance, including profitability (Drnevich & Kriauciunas, 2011; Protogerou et al., 2011). However, the relationship between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance is less clear- cut. Some studies indicate a positive association (Mousavi et al., 2018), while others suggest a negative or ambivalent impact (Protogerou et al., 2011; Akhtar et al., 2020). Drawing on the Resource-Based View (RBV), which emphasises the importance of valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable (VRIN) resources for achieving competitive advantage (Peteraf & Barney, 2003), this study posits that dynamic capabilities, as a specific type of capability, can enhance a firm’s environmental perfor- mance. Therefore, the first hypothesis is: H1: Dynamic capabilities positively impact a firm’ s en- vironmental performance in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. Dynamic Capabilities and Eco- Innovation Eco-innovation, encompassing environmentally sus- tainable products and practices (Teece, 2007), has been positively linked to dynamic capabilities in several studies (Dangelico et al., 2017; Moroni et al., 2022; Zhou et al., 2018). Dynamic capabilities enable firms to sense, seize, and reconfigure resources to address environmental con- cerns and foster eco-innovation (Teece, 2007; Tseng & Lee, 2014). The RBV , extended to include the natural envi- ronment (Cheng et al., 2014), suggests that eco-innovation can be viewed as a distinctive green capability developed through various resources. Eco-innovation is increasing- ly recognised as a crucial driver of economic growth and sustainable development (Baird et al., 2014; Aydıner et al., 2018). Building on these findings, this study proposes: H2: Dynamic capabilities positively impact eco-inno- vation in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. Eco-Innovation and Environmental Performance Eco-innovation, aimed at mitigating environmental damage (Costantini, 2017), has been shown to positively influence environmental performance (Küçükoğlu & Pi- nar, 2015; Cai & Li, 2018; Fernando & Wah, 2017). It can lead to a “double externality” by reducing environmental impacts and generating knowledge spillovers (Cai & Li, 2018). Eco-innovation is a key strategy for addressing en- vironmental challenges and gaining a competitive advan- tage (Yurdakul & Kazan, 2020). This study hypothesises that eco-innovation mediates the relationship between dynamic capabilities and envi- ronmental performance: H3: Eco-innovation mediates the relationship between dynamic capabilities and the environmental performance of high-tech companies in Pakistan. 161 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Female Executives as Moderators Research suggests a potential link between female ex- ecutives and environmental performance (Tran & Pham, 2020; Post et al., 2011). Upper Echelon Theory posits that executives’ backgrounds, including gender, influence their strategic decisions (Hambrick & Mason, 1984; Hambrick, 2007). Studies have shown that female leaders are more concerned with ethics, social responsibility, and envi- ronmental sustainability (Eagly & Johannesen-Schmidt, 2001; Boulouta, 2013). This study proposes that female executives play a moderating role in the relationship between dynamic capa- bilities and environmental performance, both directly and indirectly, through eco-innovation: H4: The presence of female executives plays a mod- erating role in the relationship between dynamic capabil- ities, eco-innovation, and environmental performance of firms in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. These hypotheses will be tested using quantitative data collected from high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of how dynam- ic capabilities, eco-innovation, and female leadership can enhance environmental performance and drive sustainable competitive advantage. This study integrates DC, RBV , and eco-innovation frameworks to examine their impact on environmental performance, contributing to sustainability discourse in high-tech SMEs. This study integrates DC, RBV , and eco-innovation frameworks to examine their impact on environmental performance, contributing to sustainability discourse in high-tech SMEs. Figure 1: Theoretical framework Table 1: Table illustrating the hypothesis number and its relevant testing theory Hypothesis Testing Theory H1 Resource-based View H2 Resource-based View H3 Resource-based View H4 Upper Echelon 162 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Research Methodology This study employs a quantitative research approach to investigate the relationship between dynamic capabil- ities, eco-innovation, and environmental performance in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. This approach is chosen be- cause it can test hypotheses, establish cause-and-effect re- lationships, and make predictions based on numerical data (Johnson & Christensen, 2014). The quantitative approach allows for the collection of precise, structured, and vali- dated data, enabling the analysis of statistical relationships and the generalisation of findings to a broader population (Almeida et al., 2017). The research is guided by a positivist philosophy, which emphasises objectivity, measurement, and the test- ing of hypotheses through quantitative data analysis (Cre- swell & Creswell, 2005). This aligns with the study’s focus on collecting numerical data through questionnaires and analysing it using statistical techniques to draw objective conclusions. Sampling Technique A stratified sampling technique ensures that the sample adequately represents the population of interest. This tech- nique involves dividing the population into smaller groups based on specific characteristics and randomly selecting participants from each group (Sharma, 2017). In this study, the population consists of high-tech SMEs in Pakistan. The sample is stratified based on firm size and industry sub-sec- tor to ensure representation across different types of high- tech firms. The final sample size for this study is 117 firms. The respondents who completed the questionnaires were primarily mid- to senior-level managers involved in stra- tegic decision-making, innovation, or sustainability roles. Among the 117 companies, the total number of individual respondents was 234, as multiple executives from the same firm participated in some cases. Of the respondents, 63% were male and 37% were female. Specifically, 18 women were identified as holding positions at the highest level of company executives, including CEO, Director, or Head of Department. Meanwhile, 39 women were in lower-level executive or managerial positions, including operations, finance, or innovation management. Measurements The study utilises established scales and measures from the existing literature to assess the key constructs: • Dynamic Capabilities: Measured using a 5-point Likert scale, capturing the three dimensions of sensing, seizing, and reconfiguration (Zhou et al., 2019). Items assess the frequency of environ- mental scanning, observation of changes in values and lifestyles, participation in professional activ- ities, adoption of best practices, development of new business methods, reaction to environmental changes, renewal of business processes, identifi- cation of new ways to achieve objectives, imple- mentation of new management methods, and the use of existing resources in new ways (Nieves & Haller, 2014; Jantunen et al., 2018; Wilden et al., 2013). • Eco-Innovation: Measured using a 5-point Likert scale, capturing both product and process eco-in- novation (Barriga et al., 2022; García-Granero et al., 2018). Items assess the development of new eco-products through technologies for recy- cling and decomposition, innovative updates to manufacturing processes to meet environmental standards, reduction of chemical waste, waste minimisation, and recycling of waste, water, and materials. • Environmental Performance: Measured using a 5-point Likert scale, capturing various aspects of environmental performance (Barriga et al., 2022). Items assess the decrease in consumption of haz- ardous materials, reduction in environmental ac- cidents, improvement of the environmental situa- tion, reduction in air emissions, and reduction of solid waste. Research Analysis Tool Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is employed to analyse the collected data. SEM is a powerful statis- tical technique that allows for examining multiple varia- bles simultaneously, considering their interdependencies (McDonald & Ho, 2002). It enables the assessment of measurement properties, the construction of latent varia- bles, and the testing of theoretical models (Byrne, 2016; Becker et al., 2012; Hair et al., 2014). SEM is particu- larly well-suited for this study as it allows for examining mediating and moderating effects, helping to identify the mechanisms through which dynamic capabilities influence environmental performance and the role of eco-innovation and female executives in this relationship. SEM is chosen for this study because it provides a comprehensive framework for analysing complex rela- tionships between multiple variables, ensuring the rigour and validity of the analysis. SEM will enable a thorough examination of the hypotheses and contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between dynamic capabilities, eco-innovation, female leadership, and envi- ronmental performance in the high-tech industry. 163 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Data Analysis This chapter presents the data analysis collected through the quantitative research methodology described in the previous chapter. The analysis examines dynamic capabilities’ direct and indirect effects on environmental performance, with eco-innovation as a mediator and fe- male executives as a moderator. The analysis uses Struc- tural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the Smart-PLS soft- ware. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) SEM is a powerful statistical technique widely used in social and behavioural sciences to analyse complex rela- tionships between multiple variables (Gana & Broc, 2019). It allows for examining direct and indirect effects and me- diating and moderating variables, making it well-suited for this study (Hox & Bechger, 1999; Rahman et al., 2015). This study employs Partial Least Squares-SEM (PLS- SEM), a variance-based SEM approach suitable for es- timating complex cause-effect relationship models with latent variables (Hair et al., 2014; Sarstedt et al., 2021). PLS-SEM consists of two sub-models: the measurement model, which defines the relationships between observed variables and latent constructs, and the structural model, which specifies the relationships between the latent con- structs (Hossan et al., 2020). Mediating Role of Eco-Innovation The analysis examines the mediating effect of eco-in- novation on the relationship between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance. Full mediation occurs when the direct effect of dynamic capabilities on envi- ronmental performance is not significant, but the indirect effect through eco-innovation is significant. Partial medi- ation occurs when both the direct and indirect effects are significant (Ballen & Salehi, 2021). The PLS-SEM analysis reveals the following: • Direct Effects: Sensing does not significantly impact environmental performance (β=0.116, P=0.346). However, seizing (β=0.282, P=0.015) and reconfiguration (β=0.227, P=0.045) signif- icantly positively affect environmental perfor- mance. • Indirect Effects: The analysis will further exam- ine the indirect effects of dynamic capabilities on environmental performance through eco-innova- tion, considering both product and process dimen- sions of eco-innovation. These findings suggest that while sensing alone may not directly contribute to environmental performance, the ability to seize opportunities and reconfigure re- sources plays a crucial role in enhancing environmen- tal outcomes. The subsequent analysis will delve deep- er into the mediating role of eco-innovation and the moderating influence of female executives to provide a more comprehensive understanding of these relation- ships. The previous model (Figure 5.1) examines the direct impact of Dynamic capabilities on Environmental Perfor- mance, and we called this the naïve model. Nevertheless, adding Eco-innovation as a mediating variable, which Product Innovation and Process Innovation represent, has changed the impact of dynamic capabilities on Environ- mental Performance. Results in Table 5.2 show the impact of dynamic capabilities on Environmental Performance after adding the mediating variable. Table 2: The impact of dynamic capabilities on environmental performance. (Niamat, R using PLS-SEM) Impact Coefficient P values Reconfiguration -> Environmental Performance 0.227 0.045 Seizing -> Environmental Performance 0.282 0.015 Sensing -> Environmental Performance 0.116 0.346 164 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Figure 2: The mediating role of Eco-innovation. (Niamat, R using PLS-SEM) Impact Path coefficients P-value Process -> Environmental Performance 0.384 0.001 Product -> Environmental Performance 0.157 0.043 Reconfiguration -> Environmental Performance 0.127 0.084 Reconfiguration -> Process 0.191 0.078 Reconfiguration -> Product 0.024 0.862 Seizing -> Environmental Performance 0.091 0.019 Seizing -> Process 0.364 0.003 Seizing -> Product 0.342 0.030 Sensing -> Environmental Performance 0.042 0.313 Sensing -> Process 0.217 0.047 Sensing -> Product 0.006 0.972 Table 3: The impact of dynamic capabilities on Environmental Performance through Eco-innovation. (Niamat, R using PLS- SEM) 165 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Process and Environmental Performance: The relationship between Process and Environmental Performance becomes significant with a path coefficient of 0.384 and a p-value of 0.001. This indicates that Process innovation now has a significant positive impact on Envi- ronmental Performance. Product and Environmental Performance: The relationship between Product innovation and En- vironmental Performance is also significant, with a path coefficient of 0.157 and a p-value of 0.043. This suggests that Product innovation has a positive effect on Environ- mental Performance. Reconfiguration and Environmental Performance: While the path coefficient for Reconfiguration to En - vironmental Performance remains positive (0.127), it is no longer statistically significant at the conventional signifi- cance level (p=0.084). Seizing and Environmental Performance: The relationship between Seizing and Environmen- tal Performance is weaker and marginally significant (β=0.091, P=0.019). Sensing and Environmental Performance: The relationship between Sensing and Environmental Performance remains non-significant (β=0.042, P=0.313). Table 04 shows the impact of dynamic capabilities on environmental performance, mediated by eco-innovation, after including control variables. The statistical analysis results indicated that the p-value for the relation between Sensing and Environmental Performance was 0.146. Sim- ilarly, the p-value for the relationship between Seizing and Environmental Performance was 0.003. Lastly, the p-value for the relationship between Reconfiguration and Environ- mental Performance was determined to be 0.168. Based on the data, the dimensions of sensing and reconfiguration do not have a statistically significant effect on environmental performance. However, seizing only has a significant and indirect impact on environmental performance. Table 4: The impact of dynamic capabilities on environmental performance, mediated by eco-innovation with control vari- ables. (Niamat, R using PLS-SEM) Impact Total effects P values Process -> Environmental Performance 0.417 0.000 Product -> Environmental Performance 0.124 0.112 Reconfiguration -> Environmental Performance 0.217 0.057 Reconfiguration -> Process 0.191 0.077 Reconfiguration -> Product 0.026 0.850 Seizing -> Environmental Performance 0.288 0.015 Seizing -> Process 0.365 0.003 Seizing -> Product 0.340 0.031 Sensing -> Environmental Performance 0.148 0.239 Sensing -> Process 0.215 0.049 Sensing -> Product 0.007 0.967 166 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Figure 3: The impact of dynamic capabilities on Environmental Performance through Eco-innovation. (Niamat, R using PLS- SEM) SEM analysis; the moderating of the female executives on dynamic capabilities and environmental performance. A moderating effect is caused by a variable (Female) whose variation influences the relationship between an in- dependent and dependent variable. We have an independ- ent variable (dynamic capabilities), a dependent variable (environmental performance), and a moderator (female executives). This section examines the moderating role of female presence on different relationships that affect envi- ronmental performance; the following equations examine these relationships. The following equation represents the naïve model, where Environmental performance is affected by the ex- planatory variable, the dynamic capabilities, and the Fe- male variable, which represents the existence of females in the High-Tech sector. (1) 167 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Table 05 model (1) shows the results of the naïve mod- el, which examines the factors influencing environmental performance (EP) in the High-Tech sector. The results suggest that dynamic capabilities (DC) have a substantial and statistically significant impact on EP. Specifically, a one-unit increase in dynamic capabilities is associated with a significant 0.750 increase in environmental perfor- mance. This suggests that companies with strong dynamic capabilities are more adept at adapting and responding to environmental concerns, leading to better environmental performance outcomes. However, the presence of females within this High-Tec sector, represented by the variable Female, does not appear to have a statistically significant impact on environmental performance in this model. Equation (2) represents the impact of DC on EP, and it differs from equation (1) in that it includes other control variables that represent Eco-innovation, namely, Product innovation and Process innovation. (2) Results in Table 5.4 model (2) demonstrated that DC have a statistically significant impact on EP; a one-unit in- crease in dynamic capabilities is associated with a signifi- cant 0.368 increase in environmental performance. Moreo- ver, the presence of females within these High-tech sectors does not impact environmental performance in this model. However, both Product innovation and Process innovation have a positive and significant impact on environmental performance. A one-unit increase in Product innovation is associated with a significant 0.194-unit increase in en- vironmental performance. A one-unit increase in Process innovation is linked with a significant 0.417-unit increase in environmental performance. Equation (3) examines the moderating role of female presence in the high-tech industry on the relationship be- tween DC and EP. (3) Results in Table 5.4 model (3) show the extended mod- el that examines the moderating role of female presence in the High-Tech industry on the relationship between dy- namic capabilities (DC) and environmental performance (EP). The continued significance of DC on EP with a coef- ficient of 0.391 suggests that dynamic capabilities remain a significant driver of environmental performance in the High-Tech industry. The insignificance of the variable rep- resenting female presence on EP suggests that, within the context of this model and industry, the gender composition of the workforce does not seem to impact environmental performance independently. The insignificance of the interaction term between DC and Female implies that this analysis does not observe the moderating effect of female presence on the relation- ship between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance. It suggests that, in this specific context, the presence of females in the High-Tech industry does not significantly alter how dynamic capabilities influence en- vironmental performance. Equation (4) examines the moderating role of female presence in the high-tech industry in the relationship be- tween product innovation, which reflects the eco-innova- tion variable, and EP. (4) Table # model (4) assesses the moderating role of fe- male presence in the High-Tech industry on the relation- ship between product innovation (reflecting the Eco-inno- vation variable) and environmental performance (EP); we find that the interaction term between product innovation and female presence is statistically insignificant. Equation (5) investigates the moderating role of female presence in the high-tech industry in the relationship be- tween process innovation, which again reflects the eco-in- novation variable and EP. (5) 168 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Table 05 Model (5) demonstrates the same obtained results from equation (4). Nevertheless, equation (6) examines the moderating role of female presence in High-Tec industry on the rela- tionship between Process innovation and EP; however, we split the sample into those who occupy high positions (top) and those who occupy lower positions (low) (6) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) VARIABLES Naïve Control inter1 inter2 inter3 sub1 sub2 DC 0.750*** 0.368*** 0.391*** 0.368*** 0.396*** 0.244 0.700*** (0.0896) (0.104) (0.119) (0.105) (0.104) (0.207) (0.132) Female 0.0668 0.0812 0.258 0.115 0.958** 0.797 1.298*** (0.178) (0.169) (0.567) (0.500) (0.458) (0.839) (0.383) 0.197** 0.194** 0.201* 0.174* 0.209* 0.102 (0.0906) (0.0907) (0.103) (0.0920) (0.114) (0.104) 0.417*** 0.417*** 0.416*** 0.514*** 0.578*** 0.366*** (0.108) (0.108) (0.111) (0.115) (0.179) (0.135) Female X DC -0.0531 (0.188) Female X -0.0115 (0.174) Female X -0.314* -0.311 -0.328** (0.178) (0.320) (0.158) Constant 0.121 -0.362 -0.436 -0.373 -0.681** -0.566 -0.885*** (0.310) (0.316) (0.347) (0.324) (0.313) (0.810) (0.320) Observations 117 117 117 117 117 68 49 R-squared 0.292 0.426 0.426 0.426 0.441 0.320 0.6898 Robust standard errors in parentheses, *** p<0.01, ** p<0.05, * p<0.1 VARIABLES: (1) Naïve model (2) Control = With control dimensions of EI product and EI Process (3) Inter1 = Interaction with EI (4) Inter2 = Interaction with EI Product (5) inter3 = Interaction with EI Process (6) sub1 = Subgroup Top Level Hierarchy (7) sub2 = Subgroup Lower Level Hierarchy Table 5: The moderating role of female existence on the relationship between Dynamic capabilities, Eco-innovation, and EP (Niamat, R using PLS-SEM) 169 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Table 05 Model (6) and Model (7) examine the mod- erating role of female presence in the High-Tech industry on the relationship between process innovation and envi- ronmental performance (EP); we have uncovered inter- esting results, especially when considering the distinction between those in high positions (top) and those in lower positions (low). First, for both samples, process innovation is found to have a significant and positive impact on environmental performance, with a coefficient of 0.578 and 0.366, re- spectively. This suggests that companies in the High-Tech industry that implement process innovation strategies ex- perience improved environmental performance outcomes, which aligns with the expectation that more efficient pro- cesses can reduce waste and resource consumption. However, when examining the moderating role of fe- male presence in this relationship, a noteworthy pattern emerges for those who occupy lower positions within the organization. For this group, female existence as a mod- erator negatively affects the relationship between process innovation and environmental performance, with an im- pact of -0.328. In practical terms, this suggests that in low- er-level roles, where individuals may have less influence over decision-making and strategic planning, the presence of females diminishes the positive effects of process inno- vation on environmental performance. These findings underscore the complexity of the re- lationship between gender diversity, innovation, and en- vironmental performance within the High-Tech industry. They suggest that the impact of these factors can vary significantly based on an employee’s position within the organization and that the presence of females may have unique effects in different hierarchical contexts. Discussion This chapter analyses the findings from the previous chapters to evaluate the hypotheses proposed in the the- oretical model. The study focused on understanding how dynamic capabilities affect the environmental performance of Pakistan’s small and medium-sized technology compa- nies (SMEs). Direct Impact of Dynamic Capabilities on Environ- mental Performance H1: Proposed a positive direct impact of dynamic capabilities on environmental performance. The results partially support this hypothesis, indicating that reconfig- uration and seizing have positive and significant impacts while sensing does not. This suggests that not all dynamic capabilities affect environmental performance equally. Reconfiguration and seizing are particularly important for Pakistani high-tech SMEs seeking to improve environmental sustainabili- ty. However, sensing alone may not drive environmental improvements; organizations must actively reconfigure resources and seize opportunities to translate knowledge into action. Dynamic Capabilities and Eco-Innovation H2: Proposed a positive impact of dynamic capa- bilities on eco-innovation. The results show that seizing positively impacts product innovation, while sensing and seizing positively influence process innovation. Reconfigu- ration does not have a significant impact on either. This highlights the importance of seizing opportunities for product innovation in the dynamic high-tech industry. Both sensing and seizing capabilities are crucial for pro- cess innovation. The lack of significance for reconfigura- tion suggests it may not be as critical for eco-innovation in this context. Eco-Innovation and Environmental Performance H3: Proposed that eco-innovation mediates the rela- tionship between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance. The results indicate that process innovation significantly impacts environmental performance, while product innovation does not. This suggests that internal processes and resource al- location improvements are crucial for enhancing environ- mental performance in Pakistani high-tech SMEs. Howev- er, while important, product innovation may not directly translate into significant environmental benefits due to consumer preferences and market conditions. Mediating Role of Eco-Innovation Including eco-innovation as a mediator reveals that seizing continues to have a direct positive impact on en- vironmental performance, even when considering the indi- rect effect of eco-innovation. However, sensing and recon- figuration become insignificant, suggesting that they may need to be coupled with specific eco-innovation strategies to enhance environmental performance effectively. Moderating Role of Female Executives H4: Proposed that the presence of female executives moderates the relationship between dynamic capabilities, eco-innovation, and environmental performance. The re- sults indicate that this moderating role is insignificant, ex- cept for a negative impact of lower-level female presence on the relationship between process innovation and envi- ronmental performance. This suggests that the relationship between gender diversity, innovation, and environmental performance is complex and context-dependent. The negative impact of lower-level female presence may be attributed to bias, to- kenism, and a lack of role models, which can hinder wom- en’s contributions to eco-innovation initiatives. While our findings confirm female executives’ statis- tically significant moderating effect on the relationship between eco-innovation and environmental performance, 170 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers the underlying mechanisms warrant further critical exam- ination. Women in executive roles may bring distinct perspec- tives and leadership styles that emphasize sustainability and long-term value creation (Glass, Cook, & Ingersoll, 2016). Research suggests that female leaders are more likely to champion corporate social responsibility and environmental practices due to their risk-averse, ethical, and stakeholder-oriented approaches (Post, Rahman, & Rubow, 2011; Bear, Rahman, & Post, 2010). In the context of high-tech SMEs, where flexibility and innovation are crucial, female leadership may catalyze aligning eco-inno- vation with environmental performance outcomes. However, this moderating effect could be contingent on organizational culture, industry norms, and regional gen- der dynamics. In patriarchal or male-dominated business environments, such as those often observed in South Asian contexts, female executives might face structural barri- ers that limit their influence on strategic decision-making (Terjesen, Aguilera, & Lorenz, 2015). Thus, while statisti- cally significant, the practical impact of female executives might vary depending on institutional support and inclu- sive governance. The negative impact of female representation at lower levels of the executive hierarchy on process innovation and environmental performance may be particularly tied to the traditional socio-cultural order in Pakistani society. Even when women occupy executive roles, they often encounter limited access to core decision-making and restricted in- volvement in innovation strategy, especially in male-domi- nated industries. This disconnect between formal inclusion and actual influence reflects role stereotyping and potential tokenism, whereby gender diversity exists on paper but not in practice. These constraints may reduce their ability to shape innovation and sustainability outcomes, explaining the counterintuitive relationship observed. As Post et al. (2011) and Glass et al. (2016) highlight, symbolic rep- resentation does not equate to substantive influence. Our findings contribute to a growing body of literature calling for gender-diverse leadership to drive sustainability performance (Liu, Wei, & Xie, 2014; Dadanlar & Abebe, 2018). However, the nuances in how female leadership af- fects environmental strategies remain underexplored, par- ticularly in emerging economies. Policy Implications These findings have several policy implications: • Promote Reconfiguration and Seizing: Policy- makers should focus on creating an environment that supports high-tech SMEs in developing and enhancing their reconfiguration and seizing capa- bilities to drive environmental performance. • Encourage Seizing for Product Innovation: High-tech SMEs should prioritize seizing oppor- tunities for product innovation through market research, strategic alliances, and rapid technology adaptation. • Prioritize Process Innovation: Given its sig- nificant impact on environmental performance, high-tech SMEs should focus on internal process improvements, such as adopting eco-friendly technologies and minimizing resource consump- tion. • Foster Product Innovation with Environmental Considerations: While product innovation may not have a direct impact currently, it remains im- portant for long-term sustainability. Policymakers can encourage the development and adoption of eco-friendly technologies and educate consum- ers about the environmental benefits of high-tech products. • Address Gender Diversity Challenges: To fully leverage female executives’ potential in driving eco-innovation and environmental performance, it is crucial to address challenges such as bias, tokenism, and lack of representation. This can be achieved through awareness campaigns, mentor- ship programs, and policies that promote gender equality in the workplace. By implementing these policy recommendations, stakeholders can contribute to Pakistan’s more sustainable and environmentally responsible high-tech industry. Conclusions Dynamic capabilities are crucial in achieving environ- mental performance, particularly in Pakistan’s high-tech small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This study explored the relationship between dynamic capabilities and environmental performance, emphasizing the role of eco-innovation and female leadership in shaping sustain- able strategies. The results indicate that seizing and reconfiguring pos- itively influence environmental performance while sensing alone does not have a direct effect. Additionally, eco-inno- vation, particularly process innovation, is a key mediator between dynamic capabilities and environmental perfor- mance. Female leadership did not have a direct impact on environmental performance. However, it moderated the re- lationship between process innovation and environmental performance, suggesting that, under certain conditions, it can play a crucial role in fostering sustainable practices. These findings have significant practical and policy implications. To enhance their environmental perfor- mance, high-tech firms in Pakistan should prioritize devel- oping seizing and reconfiguration capabilities and invest in eco-innovation, particularly process innovation. At the 171 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers same time, policymakers should create supportive policies that enable businesses to integrate sustainability practices more effectively. The role of gender diversity in leadership should also be carefully considered to understand its influ- ence on innovation and sustainability better. Several important avenues for future research remain. A deeper examination of the roles of sensing and recon- figuration in eco-innovation could help uncover specific mechanisms that drive environmental performance. Fur- ther studies should explore how firms integrate eco-inno- vation within their dynamic capabilities and expand the analysis of gender diversity’s impact across different or- ganizational contexts. One key limitation of this study is that the analysis of female executives’ moderating role does not distinguish between hierarchical levels of influence or contextual authority. In traditional, male-dominated societies such as Pakistan, women in executive roles may hold nominal positions without substantial strategic input. This limita- tion suggests that future studies explore the presence of women in leadership and the depth of their involvement in decision-making processes. Additionally, our study does not account for the possible moderating effects of organi- zational culture, gender bias, or informal power structures, which could influence the observed relationship between female leadership and environmental performance. More- over, this study’s cross-sectional nature limits causal in- ferences. Future research should employ longitudinal data collection methods to better capture the evolution of dynamic capabilities and their impact on environmental performance over time. 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Organization Science, 13(3), 339–351. https://doi.org/10.1287/ orsc.13.3.339.2780 174 Organizacija, V olume 58 Issue 2, May 2025 Research Papers Rameen Niamat holds a PhD in Business and Sustainability and is a Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Fellow. She is an experienced lecturer, dissertation coordinator, and research supervisor in business and management, and is currently working with QA Higher Education (Solent University partnership). Her expertise lies in student engagement, curriculum design, and research-led teaching that fosters academic excellence and innovation in higher education. Fayyaz Hussain Qureshi is the Head of Research at Oxford Business College, 65 George Street, Oxford, United Kingdom. He has a diverse educational background in Economics, Journalism, Botany, Zoology, Chemistry, English Literature, Marketing, Finance, and Internet Technologies. He also holds a Doctorate in Marketing and a Postgraduate Diploma in Organisations Knowledge. In addition to his role at Oxford Business College, he is a Postgraduate Research (PGR) Doctoral Supervisor at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD).