| Many people expect to find small, specialized companies in socially
responsible mutual funds. So you might be surprised to learn that many
hold some of the world’s most recognized companies. A broad cross
section can be included, from an international oil company with a good
environmental record, to a manufacturer promising to recycle waste or
a bank dedicated to corporate transparency and community improvement.
How three corporations meet the SRI challenge
Centrica – The UK-based power generation company leaves a smaller
carbon footprint by focusing on natural gas and renewable resources. Natural
gas is one of the cleanest forms of energy, and in addition, the company
generates 5.5% of its electricity from renewable resources and plans to
invest an additional £750 million in renewable energy projects.
Philips Electronics – Not only does Philips produce consumer
electronics (TVs, VCRs, DVD players), it is also the leading manufacturer
of high-power LED lights, which last longer and emit as much light as an
incandescent lamp while using a fraction of the energy. And Philips' energy
efficient streetlights, which use 50% less energy than traditional ones,
are being adopted by several cities across Europe.
PSA Peugeot Citroen SA – Peugeot is the top selling auto brand
in its home country of France, and has developed a diesel-electric hybrid
engine that is 25% more efficient, produces 10% less CO2 emissions and
is cheaper than typical gasoline-electric hybrid engines. The company also
teamed up with BMW to produce small, high-tech gasoline engines for its
compact and mid-sized cars and is working with Ford to develop state-of-the-art
diesel engines for a variety of vehicles from trucks to super-minis and
executive cars. |
