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
What does the 'Theory of Change' model help sustainability consultants assess?
Answer: The logical pathway from activities to intended long-term social or environmental outcomes
A Theory of Change maps the causal chain from inputs and activities through outputs and outcomes to the ultimate impact, helping assess whether an intervention is likely to achieve its goals.
Which reporting standard uses 'activity-based' and 'spend-based' methods for estimating Scope 3 emissions?
Answer: GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard
The GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard defines activity-based and spend-based calculation methods for estimating indirect value chain emissions.
A sustainability consultant uses key performance indicators (KPIs). Which characteristic makes a KPI most effective?
Answer: It is specific, measurable, time-bound, and tied to a strategic objective
Effective KPIs must be SMART — specific enough to be actionable, measurable with available data, and linked to strategic sustainability goals within a defined timeframe.
What is the main limitation of using GDP as an indicator of societal sustainability progress?
Answer: GDP measures economic output but ignores environmental degradation and social well-being
GDP measures total economic output but fails to account for negative externalities like pollution, resource depletion, inequality, or unpaid work, making it an incomplete sustainability indicator.
Which assessment tool evaluates a building's environmental performance across categories including energy, water, materials, and indoor air quality?
Answer: Both LEED and BREEAM are correct
Both LEED and BREEAM are leading green building rating systems that assess performance across multiple environmental categories including energy, water, materials, and indoor environment quality.
In sustainability risk assessment, what does 'transition risk' refer to?
Answer: Financial and operational risks from shifting to a lower-carbon economy
Transition risks arise from the shift toward a low-carbon economy, including policy changes, technology disruptions, market shifts, and reputational impacts from failing to adapt.
What is the purpose of setting 'interim targets' in a science-based sustainability strategy?
Answer: To create measurable milestones that track progress toward long-term goals and maintain accountability
Interim targets break long-term commitments into near-term milestones, enabling organizations to monitor progress, course-correct early, and demonstrate credible commitment.