Green Management Practices in Small Scale Industries: A Study on Thirumangalam Region (2023-2025)

Abstract

The transition toward green management practices has become a critical imperative for small-scale industries worldwide, driven by growing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and changing market demands. This study examines the adoption of green management practices among small-scale industries in the Thirumangalam region of Madurai District, Tamil Nadu, over the period 2023-2025. Thirumangalam, an emerging industrial hub within Madurai's expanding SME network, hosts a diverse range of small-scale enterprises spanning engineering, fabrication, packaging, plastic molding, and food processing sectors. Using a mixed-method research approach combining survey questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with 120 small-scale industrial units, this study assesses the current level of green practice adoption, identifies key drivers and barriers, and evaluates the impact of green management on operational and financial performance. The findings reveal that while awareness of green practices has increased significantly during the study period—largely due to government initiatives such as the 25% capital subsidy for green technologies and subsidized energy audits—actual implementation remains moderate. High initial investment costs, inadequate employee competence, limited consumer pressure, and lack of clear measurement systems emerge as the most significant barriers. However, enterprises that have adopted green practices report improved resource efficiency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced market competitiveness. The study concludes with policy recommendations for accelerating green transitions in the region's small-scale industrial sector.