Business Ethics and Environmental Impact

The video discusses the environmental impacts of business activities, highlighting air and land pollution, and the concept of private and external costs and benefits. It emphasizes sustainable development and how businesses can contribute through renewable energy and recycling. The role of pressure groups and consumer influence is explored, along with government regulations and ethical business practices. The video concludes with practice questions for learners.

What is an example of a private cost for a business?

• Improved public infrastructure

• Cost of raw materials

• Air pollution affecting nearby residents

• Traffic congestion in the area

Which of the following is a potential external benefit of a business decision?

• Increased carbon emissions

• Higher energy consumption

• Increased waste production

• Boosted local economy

How can businesses contribute to sustainable development?

• By using non-renewable energy sources

• By increasing waste production

• By employing lean production methods

• By ignoring consumer demands

What role do pressure groups play in business decisions?

• They help businesses increase profits

• They push for changes in business policies

• They encourage businesses to ignore environmental issues

• They support unethical business practices

What is a consequence of a business exceeding pollution limits set by the government?

• They are allowed to continue polluting

• They pay heavy fines

• They are given more permits

• They receive tax breaks

How do government permits influence business pollution levels?

• They have no impact on pollution

• They set a limit on pollution

• They encourage more pollution

• They allow unlimited pollution

What ethical dilemma might a business face regarding employee wages?

• Paying managers large bonuses while workers earn minimum wage

• Offering all employees the same salary

• Providing free meals to all employees

• Increasing wages for all employees

Why might a business choose to act ethically even if it reduces profits?

• To avoid government fines

• To improve brand image and reputation

• To increase short-term profits

• To reduce production costs

What is a potential ethical issue related to sourcing supplies?

• Buying supplies that are environmentally friendly

• Using recycled materials

• Sourcing supplies from local vendors

• Purchasing supplies that harm the environment

How might businesses respond to ethical issues?

• By reducing employee benefits

• By prioritizing profits over ethics

• By following the moral code and doing the right thing

• By ignoring moral codes