Web Site Offers Consumers a Chance to Investigate the Companies they Support

I wasn’t aware that this information was so easily accessible. Now that I know this site exists, I will probably think twice about what I buy. Or at least check out the site."
- Emily Munn, a junior exercise science major at Ithaca College.

Although this Web site probably won’t stop people from consuming on a regular basis, it provides the opportunity for becoming a smarter, more reasonable shopper with just the click of a mouse.

Resposibleshopper.org, a Web site created by Co-op America’s Green Pages Online, offers concerned consumers a chance to investigate the companies they support. Web site visitors can compare companies, including their favorite clothing manufacturers, food retailers and gas stations; investigate industries, such as electronics and appliances; and research specific issues, like animal testing and human rights.

One of the coolest features of this Web site allows the visitor to compare specific companies. By simply picking a category - let’s say footwear - the visitor is offered a list of more than 30 companies to choose from. Once that company name is clicked, an in-depth business profile is displayed. This profile includes the business’s background, critical issues, praises, Web site link and other companies owned. The business has a chance to post a response to the information, which the Web site visitor can read and respond to.