Could the Colorado Hyperloop be sustainable? A measure will be whether the C.H. has what is called the Triple Bottom Line. From an online course via FutureLearn on sustainability from The University of Bath.
Note: Colorado State University has a great MBA course on Global Social & Sustainable Enterprise that also includes the Triple Bottom Line.
Its a mix between Economic, Social and Environmental or as the CSU course states; people, planet and profit.
Economic impact is the easiest to measure and include:
- Profitable business
- Sustainable profit margins
- Fairly paid jobs
- Properly paid taxes
- Suppliers paid appropriately
- Investment in research, development and training
- No bribery or corruption
Social impact, with some overlap of the economic impacts:
- Working conditions
- Product safety
- Paying suppliers on time
- Good community relations
- Equal Opportunities
- Training and Education
Environmental Impact:
- Efficient use of energy and other resources
- Minimising waste and emissions
- Protecting biodiversity
- Avoid hazardous materials and waste
The Colorado Hyperloop’s sustainability plan should always refer back to the triple bottom line, and should be a focus on any transportation project. More posts to follow on this topic.