13.6: Measuring and Reporting on Environmental Sustainability Flashcards
What are the main purposes of sustainability measures for businesses?
To audit, monitor, and evaluate environmental performance through standards developed by businesses, NGOs, and government agencies.
What is the Coalition for Environmentally Responsible Economies (Ceres)?
A non-profit organization of investors and environmental groups addressing sustainability challenges and promoting sustainable business practices globally.
What is the role of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in environmental sustainability?
Provides standards for environmental management, such as:
ISO 14064 and 14065 for quantifying greenhouse gas emissions.
ISO 14001 and 50001 for environmental and energy management.
What is the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD)?
A Canadian non-profit organization that develops tools to help businesses manage environmental issues sustainably.
List indicators used to evaluate environmental performance.
Type/amount of materials used.
Source and efficiency of energy use.
Source and quality of water.
Biodiversity impact.
Emissions, effluents, and waste reduction.
Design to minimize environmental impact.
Compliance with regulations.
Use of efficient transportation modes.
What are the four steps in the Network for Business Sustainability’s guide for measuring environmental impacts?
Define success by identifying pressures and goals.
Decide what to measure (e.g., energy, emissions, transport).
Determine how to measure impacts (e.g., lifecycle analysis, input-output modeling).
Incorporate measures into decision-making.
Why is there a gap in stakeholder engagement with corporate environmental reports?
Reports often use rule-based/utilitarian ethics approaches, which external stakeholders may find less relatable than virtue ethics approaches.
What is the purpose of environmental codes or policies for organizations?
Increase awareness of environmental issues.
Signal stakeholders that the organization is active in sustainability.
Minimize environmental impact through ethical practices.
