Triple bottom line (3 pillars): sustainability in business

Sustainability Illustrated2 minutes read

John Elkington introduced the triple bottom line in 1997, urging companies to consider social and environmental value alongside financial profit. The triple bottom line model emphasizes sustainability through the interconnectedness of economy, society, and environment, with the economy being dependent on the environment.

Insights

  • John Elkington introduced the triple bottom line in 1997, urging businesses to evaluate success based on financial, social, and environmental factors.
  • The triple bottom line model underscores the interconnectedness of economy, society, and environment, positioning sustainability as a holistic approach encompassing people, planet, and profit, with the economy being dependent on environmental health.

Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free

Recent questions

  • What is the triple bottom line concept?

    The triple bottom line concept, coined by John Elkington in 1997, advocates for companies to measure value not just financially, but also socially and environmentally. It emphasizes sustainability by considering people, planet, and profit.

  • How is the triple bottom line represented visually?

    The triple bottom line is often depicted as three overlapping circles, symbolizing the intersection of economy, social realities, and environmental health. This visual representation emphasizes the interconnectedness of these three aspects and the importance of sustainability.

  • What does photosynthesis signify in the triple bottom line framework?

    Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in structuring matter on Earth and highlights the interconnectedness of the environment, society, and economy within the triple bottom line framework. It underscores the idea that the economy is dependent on the environment.

  • Why is sustainability important in the triple bottom line?

    Sustainability is essential in the triple bottom line framework as it encompasses people, planet, and profit. By considering social, environmental, and financial factors, companies can create long-term value while promoting the well-being of society and the environment.

  • How does the triple bottom line view the economy?

    The triple bottom line framework views the economy as a subsidiary of the environment, emphasizing the need for businesses to consider social and environmental impacts alongside financial gains. This approach aims to promote sustainable practices and holistic value creation.

Related videos

Summary

00:00

"Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet, Profit"

  • John Elkington coined the concept of the triple bottom line in 1997, advocating for companies to measure value not just financially, but also socially and environmentally.
  • The triple bottom line is often depicted as three overlapping circles, representing the intersection of economy, social realities, and environmental health, emphasizing sustainability as encompassing people, planet, and profit.
  • Science highlights the importance of photosynthesis in structuring matter on Earth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the environment, society, and economy within the triple bottom line framework, with the economy being a subsidiary of the environment.
Channel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatar

Try it yourself — It’s free.