Towards Sustainable Innovations: Exploring the role of Learning Climate for Innovative Work Behaviour

In today's global knowledge economy, fostering employee innovation is essential for sustainable organisational development. This study offers a unique contribution to Human Resource Development (HRD) by examining how different aspects of the learning climate support Innovative Work Behaviour (IWB) across five phases: opportunity exploration, idea generation, idea promotion, idea realisation, and the often-overlooked idea sustainability (embedding innovations over time). Based on a convenience sample of 206 Dutch vocational education professionals, this study uses hierarchical regression and path analysis to explore the effects of three learning climate dimensions: a supportive environment for learning (psychological safety and openness to ideas), management support (active backing and resources), and innovation engagement (involvement and confidence in innovation), on IWB, including idea sustainability. Findings show that a supportive learning environment fosters early-stage creativity, while management support and innovation engagement are especially important in later phases, such as realisation and sustainability. By highlighting how these dimensions affect each IWB phase differently and interactively, this study moves beyond the traditional one-dimensional view of IWB. The results offer actionable insights for HRD professionals aiming to create tailored learning climates that not only spark innovation but also sustain it, contributing to long-term adaptability and success in dynamic environments.