Purpose – This study investigates how and when employees’ perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR) encourages their workplace pro-environmental behavior (WPB).

Design/methodology/approach – Survey data were collected from 189 employees of different industries in southern China. Data were analyzed using PROCESS macro.

Findings – This study found that intrinsic motivation mediated the relationship between perceived CSR and WPB. Furthermore, self-concern strengthened the indirect perceived CSR–WPB link.

Originality/value – This study contributes to the existing literature of micro-CSR by highlighting intrinsic motivation as a mediating mechanism explaining how employees’ perceived CSR encourages WPB. In addition, studying the moderating effects of other-orientation and self-concern enriches the understanding of when perceived CSR may or may not stimulate employees’ WPB.