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This study had a threefold aim: to examine the impact of a Simmelian-tie tripartite alliance on corporate green innovation; to determine the chain-mediating roles of knowledge acquisition and knowledge integration; and to identify the moderating effect of network routines on the relationship between a Simmelian tie and green innovation.

Data were collected through 487 valid survey questionnaires from Chinese small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs). The authors examined the data through a structural model using partial least-squares structural-equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the research hypotheses.

The results reveal several key factors with positive impacts on enterprise green innovation. Specifically, a Simmelian tie significantly and positively affects enterprise green innovation. The results further reveal that knowledge acquisition and integration play mediating roles, while a network routine positively moderates the relationships among a Simmelian tie, knowledge acquisition and integration, and corporate green innovation.

This study is among the earliest empirical studies to investigate the influence of Simmelian ties on corporate green innovation for manufacturing companies. This study provides a theoretical basis for managers of firms, especially those of SMEs with limited resources, to fully use Simmelian ties to achieve environmentally sustainable innovation. In addition, this study validates and extends knowledge-management theory by verifying the linking roles of knowledge acquisition and integration and facilitating role of network routines.