The Triple Bottom Line is a holistic approach to reporting on the sustainability of a business, and involves placing an equal amount of importance on environmental, social and economic performance. Environmental, social and economic factors are all interdependent and closely associated. Triple Bottom Line reporting adds social and environmental value to the traditional economic benchmark.

Environmental
Every business regardless of size or type has an environmental impact. We all use natural resources such as paper, water and energy, and we all generate waste. These activities have a negative impact on our environment but reducing this impact is often very easy, with no negative impacts to productivity or quality of life. The environmental indicators considered in reporting about management practices are Policy & Programs, Energy, Water, Waste & Recycling, Transport and Purchasing. Being efficient with resources is not only good for the environment but the bottom line as well

Social
Social impacts generally refer to impacts on people, including staff, customers and the broader community. Good management of people will usually translate to higher levels of productivity, a stronger customer base and an enhanced reputation in your community. Social indicators considered in reporting are Employment terms & conditions, Health & Safety, Training & Education, Diversity & equal Opportunity, Employee Satisfaction, Procurement, and your business in the community

Economic
Regular financial reporting is both critical and mandatory for your business. Economic factors taken into consideration for reporting are Revenue & Expenses, Output & Inventory, Margin, Cash Flow, Risk Management, Customers & Competitors, Suppliers and Market Growth.

To find out the benefits of and how you can report on the triple bottom line of your business, visit the website http://tool.ncsustainability.com.au/