Image by tuexperto_com5, licensed under Creative Commons
Google rules the virtual world but if it ruled the real one, would things be a bit different? Google.org which is the philanthropic arm of Google blogged that it wants to see America weaned off fossil fuels by 2030 for its electricity. Also, Google's own energy efficiency initiatives will be equivalent to shutting down 10-20 coal-fired power stations by 2010 if they are successful.
The company proposes to green up in three steps. First, to make computer technology and physical infrastructure more energy efficient. They say that half the power consumed by a PC is wasted. Second, to invest in green startups creating jobs in the renewable energy sector and building whole new industries in the same oil and coal producing states. Third, by going electric on transport with plug-in cars that mainstream car manufacturers have seriously started thinking about in recent years.
I'm glad to see that behind the search engine and all the advertisement revenue it generates, Google is using its philanthropic arm to bring environmental issues to the forefront. How about turning the Google logo green? Comments most welcome!
