In a great initiative to combat climate change, Google has said that it will begin recommending eco-friendly routes to those who use its Google Maps services.
The lowest carbon emission route will be deduced based on traffic congestions, inclines, and various other such factors.
Google has collaborated with the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Lab to create this new routing model that optimizes for lower fuel consumption.
The default route option will now be the eco-friendly one when it has approximately the same ETA as the fastest route. However, if the route with the lowest carbon footprint has significantly higher ETA than the other, Google Maps will give you the option compare the relative CO2 impact between routes so you can make an informed decision about which one to take.
A good map gets you where you’re going. A great map pushes the boundaries of what a map can do.
From eco-friendly routes to live weather, learn about what’s next for Google Maps → https://t.co/C77e6DQg24 pic.twitter.com/FxfLiKmwxk
— Google Maps (@googlemaps) March 30, 2021
“In cases where the eco-friendly route could significantly increase your ETA, we’ll let you compare the relative CO2 impact between routes so you can choose. Always want the fastest route? That’s okay too — simply adjust your preferences in settings,” Google explained to the users in a blog post.
This feature will roll out in the United States later this year on both Android and iOS phones. It will soon be launched across the world.
Apart from this feature, Google also announced more climate-focused changes. From June this year, it will begin sending alerts to drivers about travel through low emissions zones, where polluting vehicles are restricted to keep the air clean. This will help users understand whether their vehicles are permitted in the area, and will enable them choose an alternative route or mode of transport. This feature will launch in June in various European nations such as Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom, with more nations being added to the list.
Isn’t this a commendable initiative by the internet giant? What do you think? Let us know your views in the comments section below.
