This year’s report shows that Toyota takes the top spot as the Best Global Green Brand for the third consecutive year, with Ford in second place and Honda in third place. Meanwhile carmakers were also credited amongst this year’s top risers, with Nissan in fifth place. The top 10 brands also sees Volkswagen placed seventh.

Commenting on the large presence of carmakers in the top 10, Interbrand said: ‘Collectively, the heavily regulated auto industry has effectively showcased its innovations and firm commitment to manufacturing vehicles in an increasingly sustainable way. Although most automotive brands have invested in meeting sustainability goals and complying with regulations, those brands that have invested in creating innovative products as evidence of their commitment to sustainability (eg Toyota Prius, Ford EcoBoost, Nissan LEAF) are receiving more recognition from consumers.’

Commenting on Toyota’s position as the top Best Global Green Brand for the third consecutive year, Interbrand highlighted how the carmaker continues to dominate the hybrid vehicle market, including the sale of more than 2.9 million Prius models worldwide in 2012. Toyota is also exploring the future of mobility by building a low carbon society called Toyota Ecoful Town in Toyota City, Japan.

Interbrand added: ‘From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to using reusable metal containers for shipping and distribution, Toyota is a leading example of what can result – both in terms of performance and perception – when a company makes sustainability an integral part of its overarching business strategy.’

Interbrand also credited Nissan, placed five overall, as the top riser on this year’s report. The brand moved up 16 places (from position 21) and broke into the top 10.

Interbrand said: ‘As with other brands in the auto sector, Nissan is becoming increasingly committed to developing and promoting its green credentials. In February, the company announced that 50,000 LEAFs had been produced worldwide, making the LEAF the most widely sold electric passenger car of all time. Nissan plans to cut 15% of vehicle weight starting in 2017, and it has joined forces with Daimler and Ford to develop a line of affordable fuel-cell cars that will roll out in 2017.

‘Reducing vehicle weight through smarter design and material selection, utilizing renewable and sustainable materials, and turning to alternative fuels are just a few of the ways Nissan is making significant strides in the green arena – and proving that sustainability can, in fact, lead to profitability.’