Generation Z vs. senior executives: young people are ready, companies need to act now

By: Trademagazin Date: 2026. 03. 24. 10:09

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For younger generations, it is now a basic assumption that sustainability is part of economic decisions. However, companies often still need to prove that green aspects can bring not only environmental but also business benefits, K&H points out. Due to the risks associated with climate change – for example, energy prices, the vulnerability of supply chains or the energy efficiency of real estate – sustainability is increasingly becoming a business issue for companies.

Multiple generations now work together in the workplace, and the perception of sustainability often differs between age groups. While it is natural for younger employees that environmental aspects are part of decisions, more experienced managers are more interested in economic impacts and measurable results.

“The biggest challenge is often to convince everyone involved within an organization that sustainability aspects are indeed important in everyday operations. Experience has shown that the younger a manager or professional is, the more natural they take this approach”

– said Levente Suba, K&H’s sustainability manager.

According to the expert, generational differences often stem from different approaches. Younger colleagues tend to view sustainability as a value-based issue, while managers often want to see the concrete impact of a green investment on the company’s operations.

Therefore, it is key to be able to translate sustainability initiatives into the language of business. A more energy-efficient building, more efficient use of resources or a lower environmental risk can also strengthen the company’s financial stability.

“It is important for corporate decision-makers to see that sustainability investments often pay off in the long term, but they can also provide a real competitive advantage. This requires data, calculations and clear business arguments. It often happens that older employees do not see the real risk that climate change poses to the company’s operations and revenues”

– highlighted Levente Suba, who added that sustainability investments often do not pay off immediately, but they can also bring financial benefits to companies in the long term, and can even provide a competitive advantage. However, this requires accurate data, analyses and well-founded calculations.

According to K&H’s experience, the different perspectives of different generations are ultimately not an obstacle, but can be a resource for companies. Younger employees bring momentum and new perspectives, and more experienced managers help to turn sustainability goals into business solutions that work in the long term.