Accountability score*: 58
Global 500 rank: 96
Sector: Energy and utilities
Region: Europe

Europe's second-biggest energy producer, with plants ranging from nuclear to natural gas, has also branched into environmental services. It now operates 10,000 water-treatment plants that serve nearly 1 billion people. The company is not as aggressive as those higher on the list in reporting various social and environmental impacts, and doesn't have as clear a system for engaging shareholders, but it does take sustainability to the core of its business. One result: its impending merger with Gaz de France - a move that will enable Suez to be a leader in the emerging business for clean-burning liquefied natural gas.