Value added activities which begin in research and development through product design and production are called A. sustainability activities. B. upstream activities. C. downstream activities. D. design activities.

The correct answer is letter "B": upstream activities.

Explanation:

Upstream and downstream are business terms that refer to a company's location in the supply chain. The closest to and end-user or function the firm is the further downstream it is. The oil and gas supply chain often uses upstream and downstream references.

Upstream companies discover oil and natural gas deposits and drills extract them. Rig operations, feasibility studies, machinery rental, and extraction chemicals suppliers are part of the upstream structure.