Social Innovation: Triple Bottom Line

"The methods by which companies measure value should not only include a financial bottom line but a social and environmental one as well." John Elkington

Sustainability is typically defined where social, economic and environmental health overlap = People, Planet & Profit.  The Triple Bottom Line.



As we studied Corporate Social Responsibility this week, I found myself enlightened and informed.  The need and responsibility to achieve sustainability should be a driving factor and part of the strategy to make more money and to meet the human and ecological needs also.

Looking at and analyzing B Corps - and what is required for a company to meet the measure to be a certified B Corp is an interesting study.  "Certified B Corporations are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. B Corps are accelerating a global culture shift to redefine success in business and build a more inclusive and sustainable economy.

Society’s most challenging problems cannot be solved by government and nonprofits alone. The B Corp community works toward reduced inequality, lower levels of poverty, a healthier environment, stronger communities, and the creation of more high-quality jobs with dignity and purpose. By harnessing the power of business, B Corps use profits and growth as a means to a greater end: positive impact for their employees, communities, and the environment.

B Corps form a community of leaders and drive a global movement of people using business as a force for good. The values and aspirations of the B Corp community are embedded in the B Corp Declaration of Interdependence."


A new perspective! Coming from a profit-driven industry  - Oil & Gas - that is being required to adopt more and more sustainable, to an administrative role with City Utilities - which is much more focused on environmental and budget management (no profits in governmental orgs!), and in looking for my next adventure, I'm beginning to see and realize the benefits and opportunities with companies that strive for sustainability.  Being responsible stewards of people, resources and capital can open doors,  generate challenges that must be overcome, and potentially initiate new prospects!