The “triple bottom line” coined by John Elkington (Elkington 1994) links the interplay between ecological, economic, and social conditions (Hosey in Bell 2008, 36). Another U.N. report, the Millennium Development Goals places the eradication of poverty and hunger as its first goals even before environmental sustainability -- which is number seven (Hosey in Bell 2008, 36). Sustainability is not just about ecological concerns but socioeconomic ones as well. Sustainability affects all, especially those who are socially and economically disadvantaged. It’s in the BOX! integrates social, economic, and environmental systems to create adaptable public spaces that embrace a comprehensive definition of sustainability. Environmental systems such as rainwater collection and the generation of off-grid electricity utilize and showcase sustainable building technologies yet balance technological sophistication with the “DIY” (do it yourself) mentality. Sustainable technologies used for the BOX! can be easily taught, understood, and then reproduced by the average Detroiter.
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