Some companies are good, some are evil. Some are working to make the world a better place, and others are lowdown good-for-nothing dogs. If money is power, let's give more power to the good companies and take it away from the bad ones! I've discovered a web site called betterworldshopper.com that makes the choice easy. They've researched and compiled data on over 1000 companies using over 25 sources. The rankings are based on how well companies do on key issues such as human rights, the environment, animal protection, community involvement, and social justice. You can use the site for free, buy a book, or download a version to your ipod so you can be an armed and dangerous shopper, now that's power!

They also list the top 10 areas where you can make changes that will have the biggest impact. No surprise that #1 is banking, where each and every dollar you earn passes through before you even begin to buy that fair trade pair of sneakers. They suggest to use a local credit union and stay away from F-rated Citibank and National City. #2 is gas stations. OK, obviously, there's a curve since NO gas station is a good gas station if you get down to it, but if you see a Sunoco on one corner, and a Mobil on the other, you should support the Sunoco for their A-rating. The #3 greatest impact is supermarkets. They rank everything like the big top 10 areas of change to little things like toilet paper, computers, hair care, and water. Just check it out, you'll be amazed to see how your favorite brands rank!