You and I are doing our part to do good for the world (every day on Daily Challenge!), but what are companies up to? They are every bit as responsible for caring for others and the environment as we are. Actually, since companies produce so much waste, and considering we pay for their products and services, it can be argued that they need to be even more aware of the effects from their choices than the average person.

This post is a short list of companies doing good. They have recognized the negative impact of their past actions and taken responsibility, invested money to change their business methods, to improve the welfare of the entire planet:

Coke’s Green Energy Makeover: Part of their “Sustainable Well-Being” Campaign launched last year, Coca-Cola has replaced over 4,000 lights with a high-intensity fluorescent system in 24 of their California locations. That means an energy savings of 5.6 million kilowatt-hours annually!

Clorox Aims for Sustainability: Bill Morrissey from Clorox announced back in October their sustainability plans for 3 of their products: Brita (now accepts used water pitcher filters for recycling), Green Works cleaning supplies line, and Burt’s Bees natural skin care.

Toyota Produces Lithium-Ion Battery Run Prius: Coming late 2009, the new Prius will house either the lithium-ion battery pack with plug-in capability or the nickel-metal hydride battery for the conventional gas-electric system. Toyota also confirmed their plan to launch an urban commuter battery-electric vehicle (BEV) by 2012.

BMW Offers All-Electric Mini-Coopers: By March, you’ll be able to lease the first fully alternative-fuel vehicle, if you live in Southern California, New Jersey or New York. Way more expensive than a fuel-run car, BMW’s all-electric Mini E has a range of only 120 miles before recharging. Ok, so we have a ways to go before mass adoption, but at least it’s a start!

Cocoa Growers Promise Sustainable Practises: The World Cocoa Foundation pledged their commitment to responsible environmental stewardship to help guide industry standards and prioritize their projects in West Africa, Southeast Asia and the Americas. They aim to conserve soil and water, use integrated pest management techniques to limit the use of chemicals, and use fair trade methods to maintain integrity within cocoa-farming communities.

Kellogg Becomes More Green: Since 2005, Kellogg has decreased their energy use by 4.5%, C02 emissions by 4%, and water use by almost 7% per metric ton of food. Their goals are to further reduce their waste from the 2005 baseline, to 15% - 20% by 2015. Kellogg was one of the companies to make the 2008 World’s Most Ethical Companies.

These are only 6 corporations out of many taking environmental and social responsibility for their actions. Which companies have impressed you with their sustainability efforts and accomplishments?