Topic Summaries

Sustainable production methods

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GCSE > Business > OCR > GCSE Business Topic Summaries > Operations > Sustainable production methods
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Formula sheet

Sustainability in business refers to minimising negative environmental impacts while maintaining profitability and social responsibility. Increasingly, consumers expect companies to take meaningful environmental action.

  • Sustainable methods include:
    • Renewable energy: solar, wind, and hydroelectric sources reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
    • Waste minimisation: recycling materials, reducing packaging, and using biodegradable resources.
    • Eco-friendly products: designing goods that are recyclable, reusable, or made from sustainable materials. For example, the clothing company Patagonia uses recycled fabrics and runs clothing repair programs to reduce waste, boosting customer loyalty.
Advantages of sustainable production methods Disadvantages of sustainable production methods
Enhanced reputation: companies are seen as ethical and forward-thinking. High initial costs: upgrading machinery or switching to sustainable materials can be expensive.
Cost savings: over time, reduced waste and energy use can lower costs. Complex changes: supply chains may need restructuring, and staff need retraining.
Attracting conscious consumers: more customers actively choose green businesses. Zero sum costs: the business may be better off spending money elsewhere to make a bigger impact.

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