Describe what is meant by the term “environmental sustainability”.

State the aspect of environmental sustainability that should replace “A” on the graph.

Describe the progress made by this corporation since 2010 towards meeting its 2020 targets for environmental sustainability.

Suggest two environmental disadvantages of sending waste to landfill.

Environmental sustainability means development or utilizing resources in such a way as to meet the needs of the present [1] without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs [1].

[2 marks]

water / water use / water pollution [1].

[1 mark]

• identifies that three targets are have already been met – GHG emissions; particulates; toxic air emissions [1]
• target A is on track to being met [1]
• two targets show no progress at all – reduced energy consumption and reduced landfill waste [1]
• use of the data to support statements [1].

[4 marks]

Award [1] for each environmental disadvantage that is suggested, and [1] for further development/exemplification.

For example: Waste can emit GHGs that contribute to global warming [1], for instance methane from rotting organic waste [1].

Possible disadvantages include:

• need for land/space
• soil degradation (leaching)
• groundwater contamination and so drinking water scarcity
• harm to local ecosystems/biodiversity
• attracts vermin
• unpleasant smells
• environmental costs of transporting waste
• burning of waste in landfills.

[4 marks]