Google Maps to start directing drivers to ‘eco-friendly’ routes
Google announced on Tuesday that the Google Maps app will start directing drivers along routes estimated to generate the lowest carbon emission based on traffic, slopes and other factors.
Google, an Alphabet Inc unit, said the feature would launch later this year in the U.S and eventually reach other countries as part of its commitment to help combat climate changes through its services.
Google said, Unless users opt-out, the default route will be the ”eco-friendly” one if other options take about the same time. When alternatives are significantly faster, Google will offer choices and let users compare estimates of emissions.
”What we are saying is for around half of routes, we are able to find an option more eco-friendly with minimal or no time -cost tradeoff” Russell Dicker, a director of product at Google.”
Google’s announcement included additional climate-focused changes. From June, it will start warning drivers about travel through low emissions zone where some vehicles are restricted in Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain and the U.K.
In the coming months, users will be able to compare car, biking, public transit and other travel options in one place instead of toggling between different sections.
