Meaning: 'Minimise' means to make something as small as possible, particularly in terms of reducing negative impacts on the environment.

Wrong options:

• exaggerate: 'Exaggerate' means to make something seem larger or more important than it is, which contradicts the goal of reducing ecological footprint.
• ignore: 'Ignore' means to pay no attention to something, which is contrary to the intention of actively addressing environmental concerns.
• complicate: 'Complicate' means to make something more difficult or complex, which does not align with the aim of simplifying and reducing ecological impact.

Correct answer: implement

Explanation: The word 'implement' is a verb that means to put a plan or decision into effect, which is appropriate in this context as it refers to the execution of new sustainability practices. It fits grammatically and contextually as it directly relates to the initiatives being introduced.

Meaning: 'Implement' means to carry out or put into action a plan or policy.

Wrong options:

• disregard: 'Disregard' means to ignore something, which is the opposite of what is intended when introducing new practices.
• question: 'Question' implies doubt or inquiry, which does not fit the context of executing new initiatives.
• abandon: 'Abandon' means to leave something behind, which contradicts the goal of adopting and executing new sustainability practices.

Correct answer: combining

Explanation: The word 'combining' is a gerund that indicates the action of bringing together different elements, which is suitable in this context as it refers to the collaboration of efforts to enhance sustainability. It fits grammatically and logically within the sentence structure.

Meaning: 'Combining' means to join or merge different things together to create a unified effect.

Wrong options:

• isolating: 'Isolating' means to separate something, which contradicts the idea of working together for a common goal.
• opposing: 'Opposing' means to resist or act against something, which is not relevant to the collaborative nature of the initiatives.
• diversifying: 'Diversifying' means to make something more varied, which does not align with the idea of unifying efforts towards sustainability.

Correct answer: submit

Explanation: The word 'submit' is a verb that means to present or propose something for consideration, which fits well in the context of encouraging employees to share their suggestions. It is grammatically correct and contextually appropriate.

Meaning: 'Submit' means to formally present something for approval or consideration.

Wrong options:

• withdraw: 'Withdraw' means to take back or remove something, which is contrary to the act of providing suggestions.
• deny: 'Deny' means to refuse to acknowledge or accept something, which does not fit the context of encouraging participation.
• replicate: 'Replicate' means to make a copy of something, which does not align with the idea of sharing original suggestions.

Correct answer: strive

Explanation: The word 'strive' is a verb that means to make great efforts to achieve or obtain something, which is fitting in the context of working towards a sustainable future. It conveys a sense of determination and aligns well with the overall message of the passage.

Meaning: 'Strive' means to exert oneself vigorously to achieve a goal.

Wrong options:

• retreat: 'Retreat' means to withdraw or move back, which is contrary to the idea of making progress towards sustainability.
• hesitate: 'Hesitate' means to pause before taking action, which does not convey the proactive approach intended in the message.
• wander: 'Wander' means to move about without a fixed course, which does not align with the focused effort towards sustainability.