B Corps Seek Triple Bottom Line

As shown in this map from the Benefit Corp Info Center, as of May 2014, 24 U.S. states had passed laws governing B corporations--benefit corporations that are motivated by making a contribution to (1) the environment and (2) society as much as by (3) profit-seeking. In other words, the triple bottom line is, well, the bottom line.

Corporations can apply for certification by B Labs to show their stakeholders that they are triple-bottom-line responsible. Customers, employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders generally welcome the transparency and the involvement in their communities and their planet - as represented by the B corp designation. This differentiates one brand from another in a very distinct and meaningful way.

B Corporation's Facebook page celebrates every legislative change and specific events that move the movement forward.

This morning's NPR Morning Edition included a story on B corps and a closer look at one in New Hampshire, W.S. Badger, maker of Badger Balm. Take a look!