Toyota, which is rapidly taking market share away from American auto manufacturers, is also an exemplary company when it comes to sustainability. Toyota took the top spot in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, according to Social Funds.

Toyota was lauded for the fuel efficiency of its cars, including the Prius, Lexus, and Camry hybrids and a strong greenhouse gas policy. Volkswagen was in the second spot, while DaimlerChrysler was taken off the list for its "poorer fuel economy, the lack of a systematic CO2 strategy, and comparatively lower improvement in the eco-efficiency of operations."

The companies listed on the DJSI also slightly outperformed the DJ World Index, proving that companies can act responsibly while increasing profits.