Most students make the same mistake: they read the case study but don't know how to use it effectively.
This guide shows you:
- What the case is really about
- The key themes IB is testing
- How to prepare for Paper 1
What the case is really about
The case focuses on a large industrial business exploring sustainability initiatives, recycling, resource recovery, operational efficiency, and future growth options.
This creates typical IB conflicts:
- Profit vs environment
- Innovation vs cost
- Growth vs risk
Key themes to revise
1. Sustainability & CSR
- Environmental impact
- Recycling initiatives
- Ethical responsibility
2. Operations & efficiency
- Cost reduction
- Productivity improvements
- Process improvements
3. Growth strategy
- Expansion options
- Investment decisions
- Risk vs reward analysis
4. Market orientation
- Adapting to customer needs
- Research and responsiveness
What IB is really testing
Paper 1 rewards three things:
✅ Application — Link EVERYTHING to the business
✅ Structure — Clear, logical arguments
✅ Evaluation — Balanced judgement
Practice questions
Try these before the exam:
- Explain how improving efficiency could benefit the business. (10 marks)
- Discuss whether the business should invest in sustainable production. (10 marks)
Write your answer and get feedback
You'll discover:
- What earns marks
- What's missing
- How to improve
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