What is the Triple Bottom Line?

The triple bottom line, introduced by John Elkington in 1994, expands the traditional profit-focused business evaluation to include social and environmental impacts. This approach, detailed in Elkington's book 'Cannibals with Forks', encourages businesses to assess their performance based on people, planet, and profit. By adopting this model, organizations can achieve sustainable growth, ensuring financial security, minimizing environmental impact, and enhancing community well-being. The triple bottom line is represented by three overlapping circles, each symbolizing different stakeholders: economic (profit), social (people), and environmental (planet). The intersections of these circles highlight ethical business practices, long-term viability, and community well-being. Organizations that balance these dimensions can thrive and gain community support.

Who coined the term 'triple bottom line' and in what year?

What are the three dimensions represented in the triple bottom line?

How does the triple bottom line provide a broader assessment of a business's value?

What does the 'people' dimension of the triple bottom line represent?

What responsibilities do organizations have towards the planet according to the triple bottom line?

Explain the significance of the intersection between profit and planet.

In what ways can organizations ensure the well-being of the communities they operate in?