That greenest of green retailers, the Body Shop, has found an unlikely partner for its latest venture: accountants KPMG.

The environmentally friendly cosmetics company is joining forces with the mega-beancounter to audit the green credentials of companies - specifically their performance on social and environmental issues.

Body Shop founder and joint chairman, Anita Roddick, described the deal as "an unconventional partnership", but said it was the natural step for businesses to take. KPMG reckons the service will reap fees of up to £20 million over the next three years. A sustainable union indeed.