Question 1
Why is reducing waste usually better than recycling it later?
Reduction avoids using materials and energy in the first place. Recycling is useful, but it still requires collection and processing.
What to learn
Understand sustainable development and the role of individuals, communities and organisations in conserving resources. Green practices meet present needs while reducing harm to future generations.
- Sustainability balances environmental, social and economic needs.
- Reduce, reuse and recycle are useful, but avoiding waste is the first step.
- Energy and water use can be measured and improved.
- Green jobs apply skills to environmental protection and resource efficiency.
Practical activity
Run a one-day audit of classroom electricity, paper and water use. Record observations, suggest two changes and estimate how the changes would reduce waste.
Use your school’s prescribed software version and teacher instructions. Keep personal information out of public practice files.
Solved CBSE-style questions
These questions and answers are original practice written for this guide; they are not copied from past papers.
Question 2
Give one example of a green practice at school.
Use daylight where possible and switch off unused lights and fans. The school can track electricity use to see whether the action makes a difference.
Question 3
What is sustainable development?
It is development that meets present needs while protecting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Revision checklist
- Can I explain the key terms without memorising a definition alone?
- Can I complete the listed practical task and describe each step?
- Can I apply the idea to a new example and explain why my answer works?
Aligned to the CBSE 2026–27 syllabus outline. Check the official subject curriculum and your school’s textbook/material for the prescribed scope.