This study investigates the mechanisms through which green transformational leadership (GTL) and green authentic leadership (GAL) influence employees’ green behavior for sustainable development (EGB). Drawing from social cognitive and goal-setting theories, we examined the mediating role of environmental consciousness (EC) and the moderating role of goal clarity (GC) using survey data collected from 532 employees across diverse organizational contexts in China. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS was employed to analyze the data. Results indicate that GTL and GAL positively impact EC and EGB directly. EC significantly mediates the relationship between both leadership styles and EGB, highlighting its critical psychological function in translating leadership practices into concrete environmental actions. Additionally, GC significantly strengthens the positive relationship between EC and EGB, demonstrating the importance of clearly articulated sustainability objectives in fostering sustainable workplace behaviors. These findings provide essential theoretical insights and practical implications for enhancing sustainability performance through targeted leadership practices, environmental awareness initiatives, and effective sustainability goal-setting strategies.

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