More companies than ever are focusing on becoming more sustainable and environmental. They recognize that climate change is real and is already starting to have a detrimental impact on areas around the world. Companies that want to remain relevant in the future incorporate these practices into their corporate responsibility initiative. Here are some of the world's top companies going green and adopting eco-friendly practices.
McDonald's
McDonald's is focused on reducing its headquarters and restaurants' overall energy consumption. Restaurants are installing energy-efficient appliances in their kitchens. This can reduce energy usage by 25 percent. Many McDonald's restaurants have parking spaces reserved only for hybrid and electric vehicles. They are also implementing initiatives that reduce the negative impact of their activities on animal habitats.
Google has dramatically reduced the amount of energy it consumes and has also built green energy projects. Their data centers are the most energy-efficient ones in the world. Their offices have energy conservation measures in place and use renewable energy sources where possible. They also create clean energy products. Among the green energy projects they have invested in are solar panels and wind farms.
Tesla Motors
Tesla Motors’ entire business model is built around offering eco-friendly electric cars. This isn't done at the expense of their vehicle's speed and power. A Tesla can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 3.9 seconds. Their cars also feature low maintenance costs making them cost-effective to own.
Waiakea Water
Being sustainable lies at the heart of this brand. Waiakea Water is a premium water brand that sells their product in eco-conscious, sustainable packaging. They have been certified as CarbonNeutral, the first bottled water company to earn this certification. Their bottles are made from 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate. This uses 85% less energy to produce than relying on other types of recycled plastic bottles.
Waiakea Water launched in 2012. Founder Ryan Emmons grew up vacationing in Hawaii and found the water there to be something special. The company's waters are sourced from a location near Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island. The water is rich in magnesium, sodium, potassium, calcium, and other healthy minerals.
Wal-Mart
Wal-Mart has been making its global supply chain eco-friendly. It eliminated suppliers who use distribution, production, and processing methods that lead to huge amounts of carbon emissions. Every Wal-Mart now uses only renewable energy sources. Its distribution system now relies only on fuel-efficient vehicles.
Starbucks
Starbucks is the world's largest coffee brand. Based in Seattle, Washington, it is now one of the largest companies turning to a green business model. Coffee grounds are recycled into the coffee tables used in Starbucks locations. They have also partnered with several environmental nonprofits such as the Earthwatch Institute.
Tesco
This English grocery store chain has become more green. Every customer that returns a grocery bag gets a discount. Its stores are powered by wind farms. They are also focused on recycling and using vehicles powered by biodiesel.
