Business and Sustainability Vocabulary

3D printing

A manufacturing process that creates three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer from a digital design. It allows businesses to produce customised products with less waste than many traditional manufacturing methods.

Composting

Refers to a natural process that breaks down organic waste into nutrient-rich material that can be returned to the soil. It helps reduce waste sent to landfill sites and supports environmental sustainability.

Eco-friendly design

An approach to creating products that reduces negative impacts on the environment throughout their life cycle. It often involves using sustainable materials, reducing waste, and improving energy efficiency.

Environmentally friendly

Describes products, processes, or business activities that minimise harm to the natural environment. This may include reducing pollution, conserving resources, and lowering carbon emissions.

Filament

A thin strand of material used as the raw input for a 3D printer. It is melted and deposited layer by layer to create a finished product.

Food waste

Edible or inedible food that is discarded instead of being consumed or reused. Many businesses seek ways to reduce or repurpose it to improve sustainability and lower costs.

Innovation

The successful introduction of new or improved products, processes, or business methods that create value. It helps businesses gain a competitive advantage and respond to changing customer needs.

Invention lab

A dedicated workspace where new products, technologies, or prototypes are designed, tested, and developed. Such facilities often encourage experimentation, creativity, and collaboration.

Landfill site

Refers to a designated area where waste is buried for disposal. Excessive use can create environmental problems, making waste reduction and recycling increasingly important.

Manufacturing

The process of converting raw materials or components into finished goods using labour, machinery, and technology. It adds value by transforming inputs into products that can be sold to customers.

Minimum wage

The lowest legal rate of pay that an employer can pay a worker for a given period of time, such as per hour or per month. It is set by the government to help protect employees from unfairly low wages and to ensure a minimum standard of living.

Mission statement

A brief statement that explains an organisation's purpose, core values, and overall objectives. It helps guide decision-making and communicates the business's direction to stakeholders.

Privately held company

A business owned by private individuals or organisations rather than public shareholders. Its shares are not traded on a stock exchange, giving owners greater control over decision-making.

Raw material

A basic natural or processed resource used to manufacture finished goods. It forms the starting point of the production process and is transformed into products with added value.

Recycling

Refers to the process of collecting and converting waste materials into new products or usable raw materials. It conserves resources, reduces pollution, and decreases the amount of waste sent to landfill sites.

Retail chain

A group of retail stores operating under the same brand and ownership. These stores usually sell similar products and follow consistent business practices across multiple locations.

Scientific centre

A location with a high concentration of research institutions, universities, or technology organisations. It promotes innovation, knowledge sharing, and the development of new technologies.

Sustainability

Meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In business, it involves balancing economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility.

Sustainable design

An approach to designing products that minimises environmental impact throughout their life cycle. It considers factors such as material selection, energy use, durability, reuse, and disposal.

USB connection

A standard interface used to transfer power or data between electronic devices. It provides a convenient and widely compatible method of connecting products to computers or power sources.