How do you balance People, Planet, and Profit?
In the fabric of contemporary business thinking, few ideas have been as influential as the 'triple bottom line', a concept often credited to John Elkington. In his pioneering book, 'Cannibals with Forks: the Triple Bottom Line of 21st Century Business', Elkington suggested that the traditional bottom line – profit – wasn't enough. For businesses to truly thrive in the modern age and contribute positively to the world, they needed to evaluate their performance across three intertwined parameters: people, planet, and profit.
Starting with people, it underscores the imperative for companies to go beyond just profits and weigh the social ramifications of their actions. The realm of 'people' in business encompasses vast areas: from internal elements like workplace conditions, fair remuneration, and employee respect, to external facets such as bolstering community relations and promoting diversity and inclusion. When a business invests genuinely in its people, it's not limited to its direct employees. By aiding the communities they function within or supporting regional charitable causes, businesses do not merely enhance their reputations but genuinely better lives.
Planet, the second pillar, draws attention to the ever-pressing environmental concerns arising from business operations. In an era punctuated by increasing climate crises and resource depletion, no company can afford to overlook its ecological footprint. From the energy they consume to the waste they produce, every operational facet can leave environmental imprints. Sustainable businesses are those that tread lightly on the Earth, prioritising practices such as energy conservation, eco-friendly sourcing of materials, and waste minimisation. Think of corporations championing zero-waste initiatives or those replacing non-renewable energy sources with greener alternatives; they are not only securing a future for the coming generations but also setting industry benchmarks.
Finally, the conventional bottom line: profit. While it has always been central to any business endeavour, in Elkington's vision, it's more than just balance sheets and shareholder dividends. Profit in the 21st-century paradigm extends to financial prudence, transparency, and ethical operations. It is about conducting affairs with utmost integrity, rewarding stakeholders fairly, and ensuring the long-term financial health of the entity. Moreover, by re-investing in employee growth through opportunities for further learning and skill enhancement, businesses can fortify their human capital, thereby ensuring more sustainable profits in the future.
Yet, despite the conceptual elegance and ethical resonance of the 'triple bottom line', it hasn't been without detractors. There are those who argue the inherent challenge in equally prioritising all three pillars, suggesting that real-world scenarios often demand favouring one over the others. Some believe that businesses, fundamentally profit-driven entities, might inevitably place 'profit' above 'people' or 'planet'.
The role of purpose in modern sustainable business
Critics of the triple bottom line present valid concerns. At the core of their criticism is the belief that it oversimplifies complex issues, focusing on tangible outputs rather than deep-rooted systemic problems. For instance, a company might be applauded for job creation while simultaneously engaging in practices that perpetuate poverty.
Another critical contention is the perceived imbalance between the three pillars. Critics question the feasibility of achieving a harmonious balance between people, planet, and profit, given the intricate web of business decisions. And while businesses do play a significant role in societal structures, are we overshadowing the critical roles of governments and other entities?
This brings us to the proposed fourth pillar: purpose. In today's corporate world, genuine purpose can distinguish a brand. It goes beyond catchy slogans, embedding itself in every company decision. Such companies recognise that they're part of a bigger societal framework and that every action taken leaves an imprint on this larger structure.
For these purpose-driven companies, societal impact isn't an afterthought. It's integral to their business model. They don't just seek industry dominance; they aim to drive societal change, valuing long-term growth over short-term gains.
But it's essential to remember that having a purpose isn't about disregarding profit. Instead, it's about recognising the interdependency of profit, people, and the planet. Companies with a well-defined purpose understand this delicate balance. They're aware that their survival, in the long run, depends on how well they can harmonise their profit motives with their societal and environmental responsibilities.
In the evolving landscape of business, where consumers are more informed and conscientious, the lines between profit and purpose are blurring. The companies of tomorrow won't be just profit-driven or purpose-driven. They'll be both. And as the definition of sustainability evolves, it's clear that purpose will be at its heart.
In wrapping up, while the triple bottom line remains foundational in sustainability, it might not be exhaustive. Adding 'purpose' completes the picture, ensuring businesses not only achieve financial milestones but also resonate deeply with the communities they serve. As the future unfolds, this blend of profit and purpose will redefine sustainable business.
