Questions for the 700-245 were updated on : Dec 01 ,2025
None
B
Explanation:
Researching social media posts can provide valuable insights into a customer’s public-facing
sustainability efforts, values, and initiatives. Many organizations use social media to communicate
their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies, environmental goals, and sustainability
achievements. By examining these posts, you can better understand the customer’s priorities and
how sustainability fits into their overall business strategy, which can be helpful when tailoring your
discussions or solutions to align with their needs.
This approach helps you stay informed about the customer’s latest initiatives, challenges, and
engagement with environmental issues.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). (2021). The Role of Social Media in Corporate Sustainability
Communication.
Harvard Business Review. (2020). Leveraging Social Media for Insights into Customer Sustainability
Goals.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). Social Media and Corporate Sustainability: Understanding Customer
Priorities.
Which percentage of the worldwide wastewater returns to the environment untreated?
D
Explanation:
Globally, 90% of wastewater returns to the environment untreated. This untreated wastewater,
which includes industrial, agricultural, and household waste, leads to widespread pollution of rivers,
lakes, and oceans, posing serious risks to ecosystems, human health, and water quality. The lack of
proper wastewater treatment is especially prevalent in developing regions, where infrastructure and
resources for waste management are often limited.
Effective wastewater management and treatment are crucial for protecting water resources and
supporting sustainability goals, such as those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs).
Environmental Sustainability References:
United Nations World Water Development Report (UNWWDR). (2021). Wastewater: The Untreated
Crisis.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Global Wastewater Management and Environmental
Impact.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2020). Wastewater Treatment and Sustainable
Development.
Which three factors contribute to employees asserting their preferences and organizations
evaluating whether to return to the office, continue remote work, or go hybrid? (Choose three.)
B, D, E
Explanation:
Three factors contributing to organizations evaluating whether to return to the office, continue
remote work, or adopt a hybrid model are:
War for talent (B): Companies are competing to attract and retain skilled employees. Offering flexible
work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid work, can be a crucial factor in appealing to top talent
who prioritize work-life balance and flexibility.
Cost management (D): Remote and hybrid work models can reduce operational costs, such as office
space, utilities, and on-site amenities. Organizations are assessing the financial implications of
maintaining large office spaces versus allowing more remote work.
The blurring of the workday (E): As employees work remotely, the traditional boundaries between
work and personal time have become less distinct. Companies are considering how hybrid models
impact productivity, employee well-being, and work-life balance.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Gartner. (2021). Remote Work, the War for Talent, and Organizational Decision-Making.
Harvard Business Review. (2021). How Cost Management Influences Remote and Hybrid Work
Decisions.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). The Future of Hybrid Work: Flexibility, Talent, and Work-Life Balance.
Which type of leader is central to the Corporate Social Responsibility function?
B
Explanation:
The Sustainability Leader is central to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) function. This leader
is responsible for developing and implementing strategies that address environmental, social, and
governance (ESG) issues, ensuring that the company operates in a socially responsible and
sustainable manner. The Sustainability Leader drives initiatives related to reducing carbon footprints,
improving resource efficiency, and promoting ethical practices within the organization, while also
aligning CSR activities with business objectives.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Harvard Business Review. (2020). The Role of Sustainability Leaders in Corporate Social
Responsibility.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). Sustainability Leadership and the Integration of CSR Strategies.
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). (2021). Sustainability Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR).
Which percentage of Cisco's partners choose to take advantage of the sustainability practices offered
for financial opportunities?
C
Explanation:
Approximately 45% of Cisco’s partners choose to take advantage of the sustainability practices
offered for financial opportunities. These partners recognize the growing demand for sustainable
solutions and the potential financial benefits, such as cost savings, enhanced brand reputation, and
access to new markets. By aligning with Cisco's sustainability initiatives, including reducing
environmental impact and adopting circular economy practices, partners can leverage these
opportunities to grow their business while contributing to global sustainability goals.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Partnering for Sustainability: Financial Benefits of Sustainable Practices.
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). (2020). Corporate Sustainability Practices and Partner Engagement.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). The Business Case for Sustainability: Partner Opportunities.
Which program is available to help customers return their equipment if it is unable to be powered
on?
C
Explanation:
Cisco’s Customer Recycling Solutions program is designed to help customers return equipment that
can no longer be powered on or is at the end of its life cycle. This program ensures that products are
responsibly recycled or refurbished, supporting the circular economy and minimizing electronic
waste. By offering this service, Cisco helps customers properly dispose of non-functioning
equipment, keeping it out of landfills and contributing to environmental sustainability goals.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Customer Recycling Solutions: Supporting Responsible Equipment Disposal.
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2020). Circular Economy and E-Waste Management.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2021). Sustainable E-Waste Solutions for IT
Equipment.
Which three factors are driving the trend of Smart building growth in the coming years? (Choose
three.)
B, D, F
Explanation:
Three key factors driving the growth of Smart buildings in the coming years are:
Customer demands (B): Customers are increasingly seeking energy-efficient, sustainable, and tech-
enabled spaces that enhance comfort and reduce operating costs. Smart buildings, equipped with
IoT and data analytics, provide a higher level of efficiency and adaptability, making them attractive to
businesses and consumers.
Government-sponsored smart infrastructure projects (D): Many governments are investing in smart
infrastructure projects to promote sustainability and energy efficiency in urban development. These
projects encourage the adoption of smart building technologies to meet sustainability goals, reduce
energy consumption, and improve public infrastructure.
Increases in energy costs and consumption (F): Rising energy costs are a significant driver for
adopting smart building technologies, which can optimize energy use and reduce utility bills.
Advanced systems like smart sensors and automated energy management help minimize waste and
ensure efficient use of resources, providing long-term cost savings.
Environmental Sustainability References:
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Smart Buildings: Trends and Drivers for Growth.
World Economic Forum. (2021). Smart Building Technologies and the Future of Urban Development.
Cisco. (2022). Customer and Regulatory Drivers for Smart Building Adoption.
By what year has Cisco pledged support for climate actions to reach net-zero emissions?
D
Explanation:
Cisco has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 across its entire value chain, including
Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. This comprehensive target includes reducing direct emissions (Scope 1),
emissions from purchased energy (Scope 2), and indirect emissions across the supply chain and
product lifecycle (Scope 3). Cisco’s strategy includes increasing energy efficiency, adopting renewable
energy, and developing circular economy practices to ensure this goal is met. The company is also
committed to meeting interim goals by 2030, reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90%.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Cisco's 2040 Net-Zero Emissions Pledge.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). (2021). Corporate
Commitments to Achieve Net-Zero by 2040.
World Economic Forum. (2021). Pathways to Net-Zero: Cisco’s Leadership in Climate Action.
What type of leader relies on IT for recommendations on technology investments?
D
Explanation:
A Business Leader relies on IT for recommendations on technology investments. Business leaders,
who focus on driving the overall strategy and performance of the company, often turn to IT leaders
for expert guidance on technology solutions that can enhance operations, improve efficiency, and
support sustainability goals. IT leaders play a crucial role in identifying, evaluating, and
recommending technologies that align with the business's needs and objectives, ensuring that the
company stays competitive while meeting its technological and sustainability targets.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Gartner. (2021). The Role of IT in Business Strategy and Decision-Making.
Harvard Business Review. (2020). Business Leaders and the Importance of IT in Strategic Technology
Investments.
Cisco. (2021). How IT Leaders Drive Business Sustainability and Innovation.
What are two descriptions of sustainable business practices? (Choose two.)
D, E
Explanation:
Sustainable business practices are those that focus on long-term success by balancing environmental,
social, and economic factors. Two key descriptions are:
Are socially responsible (D): Sustainable practices involve conducting business in a way that benefits
society, including fair labor practices, reducing environmental harm, and contributing to the well-
being of communities. This ensures a positive impact on both people and the planet.
Should be economically viable (E): Sustainability must also be economically feasible. This means that
businesses need to adopt practices that ensure profitability while minimizing resource consumption
and waste. Economic viability ensures that sustainability can be maintained in the long term,
benefiting both the business and its stakeholders.
Environmental Sustainability References:
United Nations Global Compact. (2020). Social Responsibility and Sustainable Business Practices.
World Economic Forum. (2021). The Triple Bottom Line: Environmental, Social, and Economic
Sustainability.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). Sustainability: A Business Imperative for Long-Term Growth.
Which program is available to return products to Cisco that can be powered on?
D
Explanation:
Cisco's Customer Recycling Solutions program is available to return products to Cisco that can be
powered on. This program allows customers to return end-of-life Cisco equipment for proper
recycling, refurbishment, or reuse, ensuring that products are handled in an environmentally
responsible manner. The initiative supports Cisco’s sustainability goals by reducing electronic waste
and promoting the circular economy, where products are recovered and given a second life instead of
being discarded. This program aligns with Cisco’s broader commitment to reducing its environmental
footprint and contributing to sustainable product lifecycle management.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Customer Recycling Solutions: Supporting a Circular Economy.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2021). E-Waste Management and Corporate
Recycling Programs.
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2020). Product Return and Recycling Programs in Circular Economy
Practices.
Which technology can help track resources and assets, monitor utilization, and generate data insights
to minimize waste?
C
Explanation:
The Internet of Things (IoT) technology helps track resources and assets, monitor utilization, and
generate data insights to minimize waste. IoT devices are equipped with sensors that collect real-
time data on the usage and performance of equipment, resources, and other assets. This data can be
used to optimize operations, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste by enabling better
decision-making. For example, IoT can track energy usage in buildings, monitor supply chain
efficiency, and predict maintenance needs, which ultimately contributes to more sustainable and
efficient practices.
IoT is a key component of smart buildings, sustainable manufacturing, and energy management
systems.
Environmental Sustainability References:
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). IoT Solutions for Energy Efficiency and Waste Reduction.
Cisco. (2022). The Role of IoT in Sustainable Resource Management.
McKinsey & Company. (2021). How IoT is Driving Sustainability and Efficiency in Business Operations.
What did the study in Sweden show could happen just by transitioning from 15% to 30% virtual
meetings?
A
Explanation:
A study in Sweden demonstrated that by transitioning from 15% to 30% virtual meetings, the country
could reduce its CO2 emissions by 550,000 tons (T). This significant reduction is primarily attributed
to decreased travel for in-person meetings, which cuts down on transportation-related emissions.
Virtual meetings, facilitated by digital collaboration tools, allow companies and employees to reduce
commuting, business travel, and the associated carbon footprint.
This transition is not only environmentally beneficial but also aligns with global sustainability goals to
lower greenhouse gas emissions and support a more sustainable work culture.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Impact of Virtual Meetings on Sweden's Carbon
Emissions.
Cisco. (2020). Reducing CO2 Emissions with Virtual Collaboration: A Case Study in Sweden.
World Economic Forum. (2021). Virtual Meetings and Their Role in Sustainable Business Practices.
Which model has the global economy been based on for decades?
C
Explanation:
The global economy has historically been based on the "Take-Make-Dispose" model, which is a linear
economy approach. In this model, raw materials are taken from the earth, used to make products,
and then disposed of as waste after use. This system leads to a high rate of resource depletion and
environmental degradation, contributing to significant waste and pollution problems. The shift
toward a circular economy is aimed at moving away from this unsustainable linear model by focusing
on reusing, recycling, and reducing waste to create a more sustainable system.
The circular economy encourages keeping materials in use for as long as possible, designing for
durability, and minimizing waste.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2021). Circular Economy: Reimagining the "Take-Make-Dispose"
Model.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2020). Transitioning from Linear to Circular
Economies for Global Sustainability.
World Economic Forum. (2022). Rethinking Global Supply Chains: From "Take-Make-Dispose" to
Circularity.
By which year does Cisco plan to achieve net zero for our global Scope 1 and 2 emissions, which
covers its direct operations?
B
Explanation:
Cisco plans to achieve net-zero emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2030, which covers its direct
operations, including energy use in its buildings and facilities. Scope 1 refers to direct emissions from
owned or controlled sources, such as fuel combustion, while Scope 2 refers to indirect emissions
from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling. To meet this goal, Cisco is
focusing on energy efficiency improvements, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and
reducing its overall carbon footprint in its global operations.
This target is part of Cisco’s broader commitment to sustainability and aligning with international
climate agreements.
Environmental Sustainability References:
Cisco. (2021). Cisco’s Net Zero by 2030 Strategy for Scope 1 and 2 Emissions.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). (2021). Corporate Net Zero
Commitments and Timelines.
World Economic Forum. (2021). Corporate Sustainability and Carbon Neutrality: Cisco’s 2030 Net
Zero Goal.