week 10

Question 1

Why is sustainability becoming essential for organisations?

Answer 1

Due to rising consumer awareness, global environmental challenges, and ethical expectations, sustainability has become key for brand reputation, competitive advantage, and long-term success.

Question 2

What evidence supports the rise of conscious consumption?

Answer 2

• 1 in 3 UK consumers care about where products come from

*    74% would pay 5% more for ethically produced clothing 

*    Millennials are most willing to spend on sustainable goods

Question 3

What are the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Answer 3

• 17 global goals adopted in 2015 to be achieved by 2030

*    Address economic, social, and environmental sustainability 

*    Provide a framework for businesses to align with global needs

Question 4

What is Life Cycle Analysis (LCA)?

Answer 4

A method for assessing the environmental impact of a product across its entire life cycle: raw materials, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, use, and disposal.

Question 5

How does Coca-Cola illustrate Life Cycle Analysis?

Answer 5

• Mining aluminium = environmental damage

*    Manufacturing = high energy/water use 

*    Distribution = emissions 

*    Disposal = recyclable but not always recycled

Question 6

What are components of a sustainable business strategy?

Answer 6

• Ethical product design

*    Profit reinvestment in social/environmental causes 

*    Honest communication 

*    Market segmentation 

*    Environmental systems & cradle-to-grave products 

*    Anticipating future stakeholder needs

Question 7

What are the three pillars of sustainable marketing?

Answer 7

1. Value-driven – Align with consumer values

2.    Social-conscious – Demonstrate ethical responsibility 

3.    Mission-driven – Align business purpose with global good

Question 8

How does Patagonia implement sustainable marketing?

Answer 8

• Uses recycled/organic materials

*    Donates 1% of sales to environmental causes 

*    Transparent supply chain 

*    Mission: “We’re in business to save our home planet”

Question 9

What is B Corporation certification?

Answer 9

A certification for businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency — making them a force for good.

Question 10

What is the degrowth movement?

Answer 10

A strategy to reduce energy and resource use in order to rebalance the economy with nature, reduce inequality, and improve well-being (Hickel, 2020).

Question 11

What are real-world examples of degrowth in practice?

Answer 11

• Copenhagen & Amsterdam: Cycling over cars

*    Repair cafés: Reduce waste 

*    Shorter workweeks: Improve quality of life 

*    Renewables: Lower emissions 

*    TOAST & Hiut Denim Co.: Durable, slow fashion products