Question 1: Define the term 'sustainability' in the context of industry and explain why it is important.

Answer: Sustainability in industry means using resources responsibly to minimise environmental impact, ensuring that future generations can meet their needs. It is important because it helps protect the environment, conserves resources, and promotes ethical business practices.

Question 2: Identify three common materials used in manufacturing that can be recycled or reused to promote sustainability.

Answer: Plastic, metal (such as aluminium or steel), and paper/cardboard.

Question 3: Describe two ways an industrial company can reduce waste during production.

Answer: They can implement efficient manufacturing processes to minimise excess material and practice recycling or reusing scrap materials within the production cycle.

Question 4: Explain how the use of renewable energy sources benefits sustainable industry practices.

Answer: Renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and help industries operate more sustainably.

Question 5: Design Brief: A company wants to create a reusable water bottle that is environmentally friendly. List three features or materials you would include in your design to make it sustainable.

Answer: Use biodegradable or recycled plastics, incorporate a design that encourages reuse and durability, and include a label made from recyclable materials.

Question 6: Sketch a simple design for an eco-friendly packaging container. Label key features that make it sustainable.

Answer: A sketch of a container made from recycled cardboard with minimal plastic parts; labels indicating recyclability; a design that can be easily flattened for recycling.

Question 7: Draw a plan for a small-scale renewable energy system suitable for a factory. Include the main components in your sketch.

Answer: A layout showing solar panels on the roof, a connection to an energy storage unit (battery), and an inverter to supply power to the factory. Label each component.

Question 8: Explain why designing products with a longer lifespan is an important aspect of sustainability.

Answer: Long-lasting products reduce the need for frequent replacements, decreasing waste and conserving resources over time.

Question 9: Identify three challenges that industries face when trying to implement sustainable practices.

Answer: High initial costs, lack of awareness or training, and resistance to change within established production processes.

Question 10: Propose one innovative idea for making a common household product more sustainable. Describe your idea briefly.

Answer: Replacing plastic components with biodegradable materials or designing the product to be easily disassembled for recycling.