The paper estimates that each new profile added to the US DNA database - the Combined DNA Index System, or Codis - resulted in 0.57 fewer serious offences.

BBC: DNA and individual freedom v crime prevention

According to the China Real Estate Index System, prices of second-hand homes rose 2.81% from February this year.

FORBES: More China Cities To Puncture Holes In Housing Bubble

Kaufman's book is a marvel of concision, with a handy color-coding system (red for "medium-size land birds") and a one-page index on the back page.

FORBES: Peterson's Progeny

China Real Estate Index System, which compiles the data together with online real-estate brokerage firm SouFun Holdings Ltd.

WSJ: China Housing Market Shows Signs of Warming

Its report grades cities using, in part, the EPA's color-coded Air Quality Index, as well as its own weighting system that ranks the severity of pollution on a daily basis.

FORBES: Life

Eventually Higg ratings will translate to consumer labels, but the Coalition is being careful to test the index, gather data, and refine the system before delving into anything consumer-facing.

FORBES: Target, Nike, Levi's Join Forces On Sustainable Clothing

The folks at Timberland have a competing rating system called the Green Index they launched in 2007, complete with a snazzy website and social media-friendly branding.

FORBES: Is the Eco Index a Good Way to Measure Sustainability?