Which model has the global economy been based on for decades?
The global economy has historically been based on the 'Take-Make-Dispose' model, which is a linear economy approach. In this model, raw materials are taken from the earth, used to make products, and then disposed of as waste after use. This system leads to a high rate of resource depletion and environmental degradation, contributing to significant waste and pollution problems. The shift toward a circular economy is aimed at moving away from this unsustainable linear model by focusing on reusing, recycling, and reducing waste to create a more sustainable system.
The circular economy encourages keeping materials in use for as long as possible, designing for durability, and minimizing waste.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2021). Circular Economy: Reimagining the 'Take-Make-Dispose' Model.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2020). Transitioning from Linear to Circular Economies for Global Sustainability.
World Economic Forum. (2022). Rethinking Global Supply Chains: From 'Take-Make-Dispose' to Circularity.
What is a benefit that IoT Smart Sensors deliver?
IoT Smart Sensors deliver significant benefits, including optimizing energy costs with a centralized infrastructure and features such as occupancy-based controls. These sensors enable real-time monitoring and control of lighting, HVAC, and other systems in buildings. Occupancy-based controls, for instance, allow the systems to adjust based on actual room usage, turning off lights or adjusting heating and cooling when areas are unoccupied, thereby reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Other benefits of IoT Smart Sensors include enhanced operational efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and improved sustainability by minimizing resource use.
Environmental Sustainability References:
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2020). Smart Buildings: Energy Efficiency Solutions with IoT.
Cisco. (2021). IoT Solutions for Smart Buildings and Sustainability.
World Economic Forum. (2022). IoT and Smart Sensors: A Key to Reducing Energy Costs and Carbon Footprints.
Which percentage of a commercial building's energy costs are lighting and HVAC responsible for, according to the US Department of Energy?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are responsible for approximately 57% of a commercial building's total energy costs. These two systems are the primary energy consumers in commercial buildings due to their continuous operation in maintaining comfort and lighting in large spaces. HVAC systems, in particular, consume substantial energy for heating, cooling, and air distribution, while lighting systems are significant because of the large number of fixtures and extensive operating hours.
Energy efficiency measures, such as switching to LED lighting, implementing occupancy-based controls, and upgrading HVAC systems to more energy-efficient models, are common strategies to reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs in commercial buildings.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Which three factors contribute to employees asserting their preferences and organizations evaluating whether to return to the office, continue remote work, or go hybrid? (Choose three.)
Three factors contributing to organizations evaluating whether to return to the office, continue remote work, or adopt a hybrid model are:
War for talent (B): Companies are competing to attract and retain skilled employees. Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid work, can be a crucial factor in appealing to top talent who prioritize work-life balance and flexibility.
Cost management (D): Remote and hybrid work models can reduce operational costs, such as office space, utilities, and on-site amenities. Organizations are assessing the financial implications of maintaining large office spaces versus allowing more remote work.
The blurring of the workday (E): As employees work remotely, the traditional boundaries between work and personal time have become less distinct. Companies are considering how hybrid models impact productivity, employee well-being, and work-life balance.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Gartner. (2021). Remote Work, the War for Talent, and Organizational Decision-Making.
Harvard Business Review. (2021). How Cost Management Influences Remote and Hybrid Work Decisions.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). The Future of Hybrid Work: Flexibility, Talent, and Work-Life Balance.
By which year has Cisco committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions?
Cisco has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040 across its entire value chain. This ambitious target includes not only reducing direct emissions from its operations (Scope 1) and purchased energy (Scope 2) but also addressing indirect emissions from its products, services, and supply chain (Scope 3). Cisco's approach includes adopting renewable energy, improving energy efficiency in its products and operations, and working with suppliers to minimize their carbon footprint.
The company's sustainability strategy is aligned with global efforts to combat climate change, including the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Cisco's Net Zero Commitment: Path to 2040.
