Sustainability and ethics flashcards

Topic 6: Sustainability and ethics

What is the purpose of sustainability in the supply chain?

Making commercial processes eco-friendly and environmentally responsible for future generations.

Name five of the nine actions to improve sustainability

Any five of: sustainable materials, sustainable logistics, reducing packaging, eco-friendly products, recycling and reducing waste, reducing returns and exchanges, digital resale marketplaces, free repair services, water stewardship.

How does reducing returns and exchanges improve sustainability?

Fewer returns mean fewer delivery journeys and less wasted stock, for example by giving accurate size guides and clear product photos.

What is a digital resale marketplace?

An online platform where customers resell used items, keeping products in use for longer.

What is water stewardship?

Reducing, reusing and treating the water used in production so that local water supplies are protected.

What does ethics mean in commerce?

Moral principles about what is right and wrong, guiding how a business behaves, often beyond what the law requires.

What is the role of fair trade in commerce?

Producers in lower-income countries receive a fair, stable price and decent conditions; consumers get an ethical choice and retailers gain reputation.

Which two ethical issues does the syllabus name?

Misleading advertising and harmful disposal of products.

Why do consumers need protection?

Sellers know more than buyers, goods may be unsafe, faulty or not as described, advertising can mislead, and individuals have less power than large businesses.

What should a buyer do to resolve a complaint?

Keep the receipt and evidence, complain to the seller first, escalate to the manager or head office, contact a consumer protection organisation, and take legal action as a last resort.

How should a seller respond to a complaint?

Listen and record it, offer a repair, replacement or refund, apologise or offer goodwill, investigate the cause and train staff.