3 years ago
Google’s Maps app announced on Tuesday to direct drivers for eco- friendly routes to generate the lowest carbon emissions based on traffic, slopes and other factors.
Google, an Alphabet Inc unit, said it will launch the feature later in this year in the U.S. and eventually in all other countries to help combat climate change through its services as part of its social responsibility.
The company is planning to estimate relative derived emissions by testing different types of vehicles and road types, drawing on insights from the U.S. government’s National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL).
Though the potential effect on emissions from the feature is unclear. But in a study of 20 people at California State University, Long Beach, university researchers last year found participants were more inclined to consider carbon emissions in route selection after testing an app that showed estimates.
Google’s announcement included additional climate-focused changes. From June, it will start informing drivers to travel through low emissions routes where some vehicles are restricted in Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain and the U.K.
Google said it is planning to make the Maps app user friendly for eco-friendly environment where drivers will be able to compare car, biking, public transit and other travel options in one place instead of toggling between different sections.
