Sustainability

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Entry Level 3
Unit No:
D/650/2211
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
30 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of evidence

Aim

To develop learners’ understanding of sustainability and ways in which businesses can operate more sustainably.

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Know what sustainability means. 

Using resources responsibly now so that future generations continue to be able to have their basic needs met.

Consequences of inaction for future generations: limited access to energy sources, leading to much higher costs; more limited availability of (affordable) goods and services (e.g. flying may become something only the most wealthy can do); poorer air and water quality leading to increased ill-health.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Give a definition of sustainability. 

  • 1.2

    State how future generations may be affected if people do not live and work in a sustainable way now. 

2 — Know how human activity is threatening sustainability. 

Biggest threats to sustainability: different examples of

  • over-use of non-renewable resources: fossil fuels (e.g. frequent flying)
  • practices where potentially renewable resources are used at too fast a pace to allow them to be sufficiently renewed (e.g. over-fishing; de-forestation)

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Identify the biggest threats to sustainability caused by humans. 

3 — Know how a business or sector is working towards achieving sustainability. 

Changes made could include:

  • more on-site recycling
  • switch to cleaner fuel
  • reduced use of plastics (e.g. disposable cutlery or straws)
  • reduced packaging

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Identify changes a chosen business or sector has made to help achieve sustainability.