Our research into a company's politics is divided into 4 main areas:
Anti-Social Finance
Some companies avoid paying tax, but make huge profits. Others have been criticised for fixing prices, insider trading or paying bribes.
We also include 'excessive director's pay' over £1 million under this section. Why? Well, just because we think it's unfair for directors to receive such large payouts.
Boycott Calls
Companies may have boycotts called against them for lots of different reasons. At Ethical Consumer, we report on all the boycotts we receive which have a registered headquarters, although we don't necessarily endorse them.
Some campaign groups think that boycotts aren't a good idea in case a company withdraws its business from a factory overseas as a result thus causing lots of workers to lose their jobs and livelihood. Others believe they can be very effective. We think it's up to you where you spend your money.
Genetic Engineering
Some of the world's leading genetic engineering companies have lobbied their governments for specific trade rules which now govern the cross-border transfer of genetically modified (GM) crops, most notably, patents.
Campaigners have argued that patenting crops reduces the ability of poorer farmers to save seeds for future use, as it enables a company to own the rights to re-use seed.
These companies have also lobbied against international biosafety standards to govern the potential environmental impact of GM crops in case these standards restrict a company from exporting its GM crops.
Political Activity
We think that companies have too much influence over governments through lobby groups or donating to the parties themselves.
There are negate marks for companies that donate money to political parties, or companies involved in persuading governments and institutions, through international lobbying organisations, to change policy.
Download a pdf document with full details on all ratings