In recent years sustainability and green issues have become much more pronounced, and many companies have started promoting much more ethical business models. However, the question arises, do these corporations really care about the issues at hand, or are they just “green washing”, using them to garner media attention and publicity? Some people might argue that it doesn’t really matter, as long as they are acting responsibly, but how can we really tell?
There are many different lists and awards for ranking ethical companies, some with very strict and others more stingy criteria, resulting in enormous variations with regards to where corporations place on these lists. Kellogg’s and Pepsi, for example, had a rather low score on “Oxfam’s Behind the Brand” particularly on commitment to improving the rights of women and farmers. On Ethisphere’s list; however, they were ranked as the two most ethical companies in the world.
It is very important to keep in mind that the main priority for these companies is profit. They will strive to win any type of award that will bring them more business. The companies giving out the awards will also benefit from giving a good ranking to a large corporation, because it will direct more traffic, views, and subscriptions to their site. Just remember to do research for yourself. You never know what you might dig up.
http://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/blog/ethical-awards-green-wash-sustainability