Practice IB Design Technology (DT) Topic 8. Sustainability in Design with authentic exam-style questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank focuses on the exact syllabus content for 8. Sustainability in Design and mirrors Paper 1, 2, 3 style where relevant.
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A product design team is evaluating a new consumer appliance using the Triple Bottom Line framework. Which row correctly categorizes the performance indicators for each of the three pillars of sustainability?
| Economic Pillar | Social Pillar | Environmental Pillar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Energy efficiency | Sales revenue | Community health |
| B | Long-term profitability | Fair labor practices | Carbon footprint |
| C | Worker safety | Resource depletion | Shareholder value |
| D | Waste management | Product durability | Market growth |
Which of the following describes the concept of 'decoupling' as it relates to a country's transition toward a more sustainable economy?
A procurement officer at a construction firm shifts the company's purchasing strategy to favor suppliers with verified sustainable forestry certifications and leads internal training on the benefits of resource efficiency. Which consumer category is best exemplified by this individual?
Decoupling is a central aim of sustainable development, measuring the relationship between economic growth and its associated environmental pressures.
The table shows changes over a 5-year period:
| Indicator | Change over 5 years |
|---|---|
| GDP | +15% |
| CO2 emissions | -5% |
Which type of decoupling is illustrated by this data?
Elon Musk, see Figure 1, is an entrepreneur, engineer, innovator and the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tesla. This company is attempting to design and manufacture products that promote sustainable consumption.
The Tesla Powerwall 2 is a lithium-ion battery pack that can be attached to the wall and provides electricity for household use. Electricity is generated by solar panels, see Figure 2, that are connected to the Powerwall 2. When there is no sunlight the electricity stored in the Powerwall 2 can be used to provide the electricity to run lighting or appliances.
The Powerwall 2 is a product that is entering the market and has the potential to ease the world’s transition into the use of sustainable energy.
Outline how the Powerwall 2 can support the concept of ethical consumerism.
List two methods of government intervention that could encourage the adoption of sustainable innovation such as the Powerwall 2.
Compare the consumer attitudes and behaviours towards the Powerwall 2 from the perspective of an eco-champion and that of an eco-phobe.