Care for the Natural and Social Environment: Generation Z

Educational programs of higher educational institutions (HEIs) are increasingly oriented toward caring for the natural environment and increasing societal needs. Recently, HEIs have highlighted the importance of developing young adults’ natural and social competencies and abilities as important predictors of their future responsible behavior. The entry of Generation Z into the educational system requires HEIs to readapt current educational programs regarding the characteristics and needs of this new generation in light of achieving the set goals of the future development of modern society. This chapter aims to research how Generation Z students in HEIs value care for the natural environment and societal goals and how HEIs’ educational practices support the development of their natural and social values. Based on the conducted field research, students’ values and orientations toward responsible development are outlined. The findings will enable the addition of educational programs in HEIs that address key sustainability issues and new practices for developing additional competencies for Generation Z to achieve sustainable development goals in society.