how we rate brands

our three-step evaluation system scores brands across multiple categories to deliver a final rating and detailed sustainability report for consumers

step one : research

We collect publicly available data and reports, ingredient lists, and third-party certification information. Transparency is a critical factor in our scoring, and the availability of information weighs on our final assessments.

step two : evaluation

We score brands across three comprehensive rubrics covering (1) sustainable practices, (2) non-toxicity of ingredients and/or materials, and (3) social responsibility and fair labor.

step three : calculation

We calculate individual scores for our rubrics, weigh them separately, and then combine them to create a final, overall sustainability score. Using this number, we place brands on one of five tiers.

avoid

Brands in this category demonstrate total disregard for sustainability and ethical practices. They contribute actively to degrading the environment and distribute products that are dangerous for consumers.

poor

Brands in this category may implement some sustainable measures or practices, but these are largely inadequate. They have not gone far enough in reducing their impact or safeguarding the health of consumers

average

Brands in this category have begun making meaningful strides toward sustainability but lack the commitment needed to meaningfully reduce impact. These brands have done some work but are still beneath the threshold for recommendation.

conscious

Brands in this category demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability, they have implemented meaningful measures to safeguard the health of people and the planet. They meet our requirements for product recommendation.

top choice

Brand in this category have excelled in minimizing their impact and providing safe products for consumers. They've implemented robust and comprehensive action to ensure maximum sustainability and set an example for their industries.

considering scale

Larger corporations are subject to more stringent criteria due to their significant impact and resource availability. This includes transparency, where we expect larger corporations to disclose available sustainability and social responsibility reports in a more comprehensive way.

Because of the expanded scale of their impact, we also expect that larger corporations take on greater social and environmental responsibility. We consider the history of environmental or social violations and evaluate measures taken to address and correct past violations as part of our evaluations.