Adopting the ESG concept into the university ecosystem from a generation Z perspective

The aim of this article is to indicate the benefits resulting from the potential of pro-environmental expectations of Generation Z towards universities, which, as educational institutions, should be a model of responsible conduct in accordance with the ESG message. The authors used a sequential explanatory strategy with a literature review method and a diagnostic survey using the user-centric CAWI internet survey method. A practical conclusion was that the functioning of universities should be consistent with the idea of sustainable development and ESG guidelines if they want to maintain the authority of educational guides for Generation Z. Universities should take measures to reduce CO2 emissions, implement zero waste policies, invest in renewable energy technologies, and intensify the promotion of diversity, inclusion and active involvement in local community initiatives. The originality of the research is based on the research covering the expectations of Generation Z representatives regarding the functioning of universities. The research was limited by time and budget. In the future, the research will be repeated, including the perspective of representatives of academic staff and with a broader impact on European countries.