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.