Amid the ongoing efforts to finance sustainability projects across the globe, there’s growing recognition that public investments alone may not suffice. In this context, it becomes crucial to attract private financial resources and channel them into activities that align with our collective sustainability objectives, especially at the European level. A recently published article (Are Z Generation young people potential investors in sustainable finance?,  Nadège Ribau-Peltre, 2023) puts the spotlight on the potential role of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, in driving the world towards a more sustainable future.

The article explores the attitudes and knowledge of different segments within Gen Z, focusing on French young people from this generation who are expected to be the investors of tomorrow. Notably, the study identifies three distinct segments within this cohort, each exhibiting varying levels of awareness and inclinations towards both traditional and sustainable investments.

Surprisingly, more than half of the respondents belonged to a group with a notably favorable stance towards sustainable investments. However, they demonstrated limited knowledge of investments in general and held a somewhat skeptical view of traditional investment practices. These intriguing findings beg the question of what factors may underlie this unique pro-sustainability perspective within this subgroup.

The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and harnessing the potential of these young individuals in steering private financial flows towards sustainability. Their role as future investors will be instrumental in determining how well we can fund the necessary initiatives to secure a more sustainable planet.

To read the full article and gain further insights into this fascinating study, you can access it  here: Are Z Generation young people potential investors in sustainable finance? | Cairn.info