Topic 8 Terms and Definitions

Triple bottom line sustainability

• An expanded spectrum of values and criteria for measuring organizational success: economic, environmental and social.
• A simplified approach focusing only on profit and reducing costs
• A traditional set of values for assessing success primarily on financials
• A narrow scope of goals centered exclusively on economic growth

Answer explanation

8.1 Sustainable development

Decoupling

• Disconnecting two trends so that one no longer depends on the other. Through the act of decoupling (using resources more productively and redesigning production systems), it is technically possible to deliver the same or equivalent goods and services with lower environmental impact while maintaining social and equity benefits.
• Separating unrelated variables to reduce mutual influence in dynamic systems
• Detaching correlated elements to enhance independent performance across different areas
• Isolating interactions between distinct components to minimize mutual dependencies and impacts

Answer explanation

8.1 Sustainable development

Sustainable development

• Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
• Development focused on immediate gains and consumption without considering future impacts
• Development prioritizing current economic growth disregarding environmental conservation
• Development that exploits natural resources extensively for short-term benefits

Answer explanation

8.1 Sustainable development

Sustainability reporting

• A company report that focusses on four aspects of performance: Economic; Environmental; Social; and Governance.
• A general overview of a company‚Äôs annual financial statements and profits
• A detailed study on the productivity and efficiency of company machinery
• A comprehensive guide on the best practices for marketing and advertising strategies

Answer explanation

8.1 Sustainable development

Product stewardship

• Everyone involved in making, selling, buying or handling electronic equipment takes responsibility for minimizing environmental impact of the equipment at all stages in the life cycle.
• Manufacturers alone ensure the equipment is recycled sustainably at the end of its use.
• Retailers focus on selling as many units as possible without environmental concerns.
• Consumers are solely responsible for disposing of their electronics properly.

Answer explanation

8.1 Sustainable development

Sustainable consumption

• The consumption of goods and services that have minimal environmental impact, promote social equity and economically viable, whilst meeting basic human needs worldwide.
• The consumption of goods and services that are economically intensive and promote human competition while preserving traditional practices.
• The usage of products and services that maximize profit and material wealth without considering environmental or social factors.
• The acquisition of resources driven by market demand and global trade focusing on short-term gains.

Answer explanation

8.2 Sustainable consumption

Eco-champion

• Individuals or groups that champion environmental issues within organizations.
• Individuals or groups that ignore environmental issues within organizations
• Individuals who oppose environmental issues within organizations
• Organizations promoting issues not related to the environment

Answer explanation

8.2 Sustainable consumption

Eco-fan

• Individuals or groups that enthusiastically adopt environmentally friendly practices as consumers.
• People who occasionally engage with environmental activities to appear trendy
• Organizations that primarily focus on profit rather than environmental impact
• Consumers who are indifferent to sustainable practices and their consequences

Answer explanation

8.2 Sustainable consumption

Eco-phobe

• Individuals or groups that actively resent talk of environmental protection.
• People or organizations enthusiastic supporters of nature conservation
• Communities that organize events for ecological awareness
• Individuals advocating for sustainable and green energy initiatives

Answer explanation

8.2 Sustainable consumption

Eco-warrior

• Individuals or groups that actively demonstrate on environmental issues.
• Organizations dedicated to teaching environmental science
• People or entities that oppose environmental protection
• Citizens who create art inspired by nature conservation

Answer explanation

8.2 Sustainable consumption