Sustainable Development and Esg Initiatives: The Role of the Younger Generation in Corporate Management

This study analyzes the attitudes of young professionals in Kazakhstan towards Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. A quantitative study was conducted, including a survey of 300 young employees from various sectors in Kazakhstan. The study examined the influence of factors such as gender, age, level of education, and place of education on attitudes towards ESG. A comprehensive approach was used for data analysis, based on questionnaires and utilizing MATLAB to create and validate 24 matrices representing different groups of respondents. Matrix operations, trace analysis, mean value calculations, and matrix norms were employed to identify patterns and correlations. The aim of the study is to develop a profile of an ESG-oriented young specialist in Kazakhstan by examining how corporate culture and educational experience influence ESG perspectives. By identifying the characteristics and factors that influence positive attitudes towards ESG, the study provides valuable information for developing targeted strategies to raise awareness about ESG and integrate it into Kazakhstan’s evolving business landscape. Comparative analysis reveals significant differences in the perception of company activities among various demographic groups. Young men with engineering/technical education obtained in Kazakhstan exhibit the most positive attitudes towards environmental, social, and governance activities of companies. Meanwhile, older women with social sciences/humanities education, whether obtained in Kazakhstan or abroad, show the most criticism. The study’s results reflect current trends and provide valuable insights for further research in the field of ESG and young generation’s perception of corporate activities. Thus, the study provides concrete data on the perception of various aspects of ESG among Kazakhstani graduates, complementing contemporary research that discusses the impact of ESG on corporate strategy management and financial performance.