McDonald's offered Big Macs for $1.58, or 150 yen, to anyone who would simply download a form from the government site and check off up to 39 boxes as a promise to perform acts that would reduce carbon dioxide emissions contributing to global warming, such as cutting air conditioning use or reducing shower time. Customers could print the forms or show them on their mobile phones when buying their McMeal.

McDonald's is one of more than 80 companies offering goods or prizes to help Japan's drive to reduce greenhouse gases.

Is this a case of altruism or false promises to satisfy the craving for a greasy Big Mac? It's great that the Japanese government is urging its citizens to make changes, but checking off boxes is hardly a sign of action. Perhaps instead of making a promise, customers could take alternative transportation to the restaurants rather than driving, or show a lowered electricity bill or a receipt for fluorescent light bulbs. Or McDonald's could convert all its leftover fry oil to biofuel, like it plans do in Britain.