Recently when I was volunteering at a race that was going green, I came across some informational displays, and on them I saw names of familiar companies such as Burger King, Starbucks, Nike, and eBay. Intrigued, I took some time to learn about the sponsor of the stand: ClimateCounts.org.

The name Climate Counts has two meanings: 1. The climate matters. 2.The Website is keeping a count of how well popular companies are performing on an environmentally-friendly scale.

Climate Counts uses a 0-to-100 point scale and four major categories (review, reduce, policy stance, and report) to rate how green a company’s operations are. They are scored on how well they keep track of their inventory and emissions, as well as if the company has been setting goals for efficiency in the future. Companies can even lose points if they are against a public policy that could require mandatory climate change action by businesses. Lastly, they are scored on their report, or how well they present and inform the public of their emissions, risks, and actions.

Of the aforementioned companies, Nike earned the highest score, 82. It is considered a company that is making strides. Starbucks is also “striding” with a score of 49. eBay, however, is considered a “stuck” company with a score of 5. Burger King fares even worse with an astoundingly low score of 0. Other companies that are between “striding” and “stuck” are considered “starting.” Among these are Kellogg, Marriot, Disney, and Samsung.

Why is Climate Counts targeting these corporations? Climate Counts hopes that you use the data they collect to encourage or discourage the way your favorite companies are operating. Are you unhappy with the way the company is facing global warming? Let them know. “If 150 of the world’s largest companies reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by just 5%, that’d be like taking nearly 42 million cars off the road.” When consumers avoid companies that are avoiding their environmental responsibilities, it sends the clear message that ignoring the climate crisis is simply unacceptable. Between 2007 and 2008, 84% of the companies that had been scored took steps to improve their scores. When it comes to the climate, every step counts.

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