Understanding the ethical lenses
The ethical lenses give you an at-a-glance view of how a product performs across different areas such as conflict, data sovereignty, labour and accessibility.They are not designed for filtering. Instead, think of them as a quick stock take. A higher number means stronger evidence of good practice. A lower number signals risk or weak transparency. Blank cells mean there is no meaningful information available.The Median Ethical Rating is calculated automatically from the available data and offers a simple overview, but it should be read alongside the individual lenses.
Conflict & Accountability
Flags direct or inherited complicity (e.g. hosts, investors, or use cases tied to war, surveillance, or occupation).
Data, Privacy & Sovereignty
Looks at how user data is collected, stored, and governed. Considers consent, transparency, encryption, and whether data remains under local or community control.
Autonomy, Freedom & Surveillance
Measures how much control users retain over their tools and data. Flags systems that enable surveillance, lock-in, or dependency on centralised platforms; rewards products that protect freedom and allow self-hosting or exit.
Climate & Environmental Justice
Examines energy use, emissions, and environmental reporting. Rewards companies that use renewable power, disclose impact data, and avoid extractive or polluting practices.
Human Rights & Labour
Assesses treatment of workers and respect for human rights throughout the company’s operations and supply chain. Includes fair pay, freedom of association, and due diligence on partner conduct.
Indigenous Culture & Rights
Looks for respect of Indigenous sovereignty, culture, and consent in both physical and digital operations. Flags exploitation of Indigenous data, land, or knowledge without Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).
Gender & Racial Equity
Assesses representation, pay equity, and anti-bias measures across the company and its product design. Looks for leadership diversity and transparent equity reporting.
Open Tech & Digital Commons
Rates openness of code, interoperability, and contribution to shared digital infrastructure. Values transparent licensing and collaboration with open-source or public-interest projects.
Accessibility & Usability
Evaluates whether products are inclusive and functional for diverse users. Checks compliance with accessibility standards (e.g. WCAG) and usability across languages, devices, bandwidths and abilities.
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