Sustainable business practicesare those that focus on long-term success by balancing environmental, social, and economic factors. Two key descriptions are:
Are socially responsible (D):Sustainable practices involve conducting business in a way that benefits society, including fair labor practices, reducing environmental harm, and contributing to the well-being of communities. This ensures a positive impact on both people and the planet.
Should be economically viable (E):Sustainability must also be economically feasible. This means that businesses need to adopt practices that ensure profitability while minimizing resource consumption and waste. Economic viability ensures that sustainability can be maintained in the long term, benefiting both the business and its stakeholders.
Environmental Sustainability References:
United Nations Global Compact. (2020).Social Responsibility and Sustainable Business Practices.
World Economic Forum. (2021).The Triple Bottom Line: Environmental, Social, and Economic Sustainability.
McKinsey & Company. (2021).Sustainability: A Business Imperative for Long-Term Growth.
Question 2
Which percentage of a commercial building's energy costs are lighting and HVAC responsible for, according to the US Department of Energy?
Options:
A.
139%
B.
50%
C.
57%
D.
75%
Answer:
C
Explanation:
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are responsible for approximately57%of a commercial building's total energy costs. These two systems are the primary energy consumers in commercial buildings due to their continuous operation in maintaining comfort and lighting in large spaces. HVAC systems, in particular, consume substantial energy for heating, cooling, and air distribution, while lighting systems are significant because of the large number of fixtures and extensive operating hours.
Energy efficiency measures, such as switching to LED lighting, implementing occupancy-based controls, and upgrading HVAC systems to more energy-efficient models, are common strategies to reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs in commercial buildings.
Environmental Sustainability References:
U.S. Department of Energy. (2021).Energy Efficiency Trends in Commercial Buildings.
Energy Star. (2020).Commercial Building Energy Consumption Survey.
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). (2020).Reducing Energy Use in Commercial Buildings.
Question 3
By which year has Cisco committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions?
Options:
A.
2035
B.
2040
C.
2045
D.
2050
Answer:
B
Explanation:
Cisco has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040 across its entire value chain. This ambitious target includes not only reducing direct emissions from its operations (Scope 1) and purchased energy (Scope 2) but also addressing indirect emissions from its products, services, and supply chain (Scope 3). Cisco’s approach includes adopting renewable energy, improving energy efficiency in its products and operations, and working with suppliers to minimize their carbon footprint.
The company’s sustainability strategy is aligned with global efforts to combat climate change, including the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Cisco's Net Zero Commitment: Path to 2040.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2022). Corporate Net Zero Goals and Emissions Reductions.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). (2021). Net Zero Emissions Commitments and Corporate Responsibility.