According to the case study, how should ABC respond to sustainability pressures?

• A. ABC should outsource sustainability to a third party without changing operations.
• B. ABC should shift entirely to a circular model and discontinue its core operations.
• C. ABC should move towards a more circular and sustainable business model alongside its core concrete operations.
• D. ABC should focus solely on its existing processes and ignore sustainability pressures.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that sustainability pressures are best met by weaving circularity into how the business operates, not by treating it as something separate from the core activities. Moving toward a more circular and sustainable business model alongside core concrete operations means ABC continues making concrete while redesigning processes and offerings to reduce waste, reuse materials, and operate more efficiently. This approach can include using recycled or secondary materials, designing for durability and easier disassembly, improving energy and water efficiency, and offering services or products that keep materials in use longer. It addresses environmental concerns and regulatory expectations, can lower costs through reduced waste and energy use, and protects the company’s market position by aligning with customer and stakeholder demands. In contrast, outsourcing sustainability away from core operations would weaken integration and accountability, discontinuing core operations isn’t feasible for a going concern, and sticking to existing processes while ignoring pressures risks losing competitiveness and legitimacy.