Google going green

Internet search giant Google plans to be carbon neutral by the end of 2007, it has announced.

Google's methods for creating a more environmentally-friendly organisation include carbon offsetting, a shuttle bus for employees and incentives for buying fuel-efficient vehicles.

"We see carbon offsets not as a permanent solution but rather as a temporary tool allowing us to take full responsibility for our impact right away," wrote Urs Hoelzle, senior vice president of operations, on the Google blog.

"We can help reduce climate impact now while we develop more sustainable strategies for the future," said Hoelzle.

Longer-term plans to achieve carbon neutral status and spread the green message are being drawn up. Strategies include using energy from renewable sources and raising awareness of climate change through the company's ubiquitous products.

"We're only one company, so as well as improving our own practices, we want to do more to raise awareness and commitment worldwide," Hoelzle said.

Google also announced last week that it was taking part in a scheme called Climate Savers Computing Initiative (CSCI), along with Intel, Dell, HP, Microsoft and the World Wildlife Fund.

www.google.com/corporate/green/energy
www.climatesaverscomputing.org

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