Power to the Planet

Crowdsourced solutions to environmental challenges

Featured Organization

McDonald’s

Observations

What consumers see and think

Research and Analysis

Uncovering the truth

Impact Statistics

McDonald’s produces more than 53 million metric tons of carbon per year — and that number is still rising.

Bloomberg

Greenhouse gases emitted directly from McDonald's restaurants amounted to approximately 0.764 megatons of carbon dioxide equivalents in 2017.

Statista

True Progress

In Grimes County, Texas, McDonald’s purchased an estimated 470,000 megawatt hours of solar power per year, or enough to power over 900 McDonald’s restaurants

McDonald’s launched a solar project in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana that is expected to generate about 327,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy annually, the equivalent of the average annual electricity consumption of 30,700 U.S. homes.

Overall Assessment

- 5 - They have amazing potential, and have done great work over the years, but it’s obvious that they have a huge impact and need to move faster.

- 3 - With power comes responsibility. They add millions of tons of carbon and bare responsibility for global warming.

Vision for A Positive Future

I see a future when all of their power for their restaurants comes from renewable energy

I see a time when their burgers are 50% plant material

I see a future when ALL of their plastic products (straws, lids, etc.) are 100% compostable

I see a time when McDonald’s influences the other restaurants to follow their example and drive real change for the planet.

Practical Actions

Suggested steps to lower the institution’s impact

Use a Green Bank

Purchase Green Insurance

Show Energy Use to Building Occupants

Maximize On-Site Solar

Purchase 100% Renewable Energy

Install Automatic Faucets

Heat Water with Solar Energy

Electrify Transportation

Join 1% for the Planet

(End of Featured Observations )

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