Do generation y and Z really concern about environmental issues?

Abstract

Generation Z has started entering adulthood and the workplace in the last couple of years. Both generations Y and Z will be a major force in workplace as well as marketforce. Both generations shared similar characteristics, e.g. digital naïve, constant connection online, high confidence, and demanding. However, they are born and raised in different economic and life situation. Those differences will affect the beliefs, behaviors, and values. Understanding this will help companies and other organizations who work to tackle the environmental issue on how to approach and ensure their participation. At present, there remains limited studies to see the difference between both generations' characteristics. This research aims to see whether there are differences in concern on the environmental issue between groups. A descriptive quantitative study was conducted in generation Y and Z in Indonesia. Samples were collected using snowball methods. Four-point Likert scale questionnaires were designed and distributed. 140 questionnaires were collected and eligible to be analyzed. The result shows there are no significant differences in the concern of the environment, participate in reducing plastic use, and the opinion of the importance of a company to have a sustainability development program. However, there is a significant difference in actively participating in an event promoting environmental issues. This research contributes to the body of evidence on Generation Y and Z characteristics.