When websites or companies say “ for every ____ we will plant a tree” or “donate a grain of rice” (like freerice.com) why can’t they just donate those things without users doing whatever simple thing on their website?

Question

When websites or companies say “ for every ____ we will plant a tree” or “donate a grain of rice” (like freerice.com) why can’t they just donate those things without users doing whatever simple thing on their website?

In: Economics

Answer 1

To add, as other’s said, it’s good PR to donate, and it drives sales. Also, charitable donations are tax deductible, so it’s not YOU who are donating to the charity, but THE CORPORATION who is donating. You don’t get the deduction, the company does. It lowers their tax burden and companies don’t do these things unless it benefits their bottom line – they’re not losing out on profits making that donation, they’re making more.