Assessment & Monitoring Methods Flashcards
7 cards from real CSC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Assessment & Monitoring Methods flashcards as text
Which data collection method involves systematically observing and recording environmental conditions at regular intervals over time?
Answer: Environmental monitoring
Environmental monitoring involves the systematic collection of data on environmental parameters at regular intervals to track changes and assess compliance with standards.
A company wants to measure its water use efficiency. Which metric best expresses this?
Answer: Water consumed per unit of production output
Water use efficiency is best expressed as intensity — the amount of water consumed relative to a unit of output — enabling meaningful performance comparisons over time.
What is the Planetary Boundaries framework primarily used for in sustainability assessments?
Answer: Defining the safe operating space for humanity across nine Earth system processes
The Planetary Boundaries framework, developed by Rockström et al., identifies nine biophysical boundaries within which humanity can safely operate without destabilizing Earth systems.
Which approach is used to assess the social and economic impacts of a project on local communities before implementation?
Answer: Social Impact Assessment (SIA)
Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is a systematic process for identifying, analyzing, and managing the social consequences of planned projects prior to implementation.
When conducting a supply chain sustainability assessment, which tool helps map risks across multiple tiers of suppliers?
Answer: Supply chain mapping combined with risk scoring matrices
Supply chain mapping combined with risk scoring matrices allows organizations to visualize supplier networks and systematically evaluate ESG risks at Tier 1, 2, and beyond.
What does a 'gap analysis' in a sustainability assessment typically identify?
Answer: The difference between current sustainability performance and desired targets or benchmarks
A gap analysis compares an organization's current sustainability performance against best practices, standards, or its own targets to identify areas requiring improvement.
Which verification method involves an independent third party reviewing sustainability data and claims for accuracy and reliability?
Answer: External assurance
External assurance involves an independent third-party organization examining and verifying sustainability data and disclosures, providing credibility to reported information.