Google has announced (opens in a new tab) goes green(er) in a nod to the environment as well as in an attempt to appease environmentally conscious consumers.
Google has long been associated with software and other services, however, in recent years it has had similar success to Apple with its own hardware. In addition to Google Pixel phones, the company has ventured into laptops and more recently tablets, as well as smart home and health kit packages after numerous acquisitions.
In keeping with its commitment to transparency, Google has taken the secrets away from some of the green processes that apply to the equipment we buy.
Is Google hardware environmentally friendly?
Part of the announcement focuses on “the company’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions across its entire business and value chain, including consumer products, by 2030.” It highlights some steps taken in the previous year rather than making bold promises for the future.
Recycled materials are now an integral part of Google hardware, and nearly a third (30%) of all materials used in hardware in 2022 are recycled. Aluminum, stainless steel, rare-earth magnet and glass are included in this figure, as are plastics, 48% of which are recycled.
Packaging, which has long been an easy step for companies, has also come under scrutiny. Google plans to completely remove plastic from its packaging by 2025, although some criticize the company for too little and too late for such an easy step to save the earth.
There has also been a recent focus on volume and weight, allowing transport companies to handle more shipments at once, thus reducing transportation-related emissions.
In particular, Google’s partnership with iFixit is of great value to consumers, enabling tech-savvy people to repair their own equipment with genuine parts, which in turn also helps eliminate e-waste, allowing customers to keep things for longer. They also promise to be more energy efficient when it comes to running daily.
Google isn’t the only company screaming about its green certifications, and every Apple speech usually takes the time to list the company’s hardware from recycled and eco-friendly materials. A move in the right direction, increased competition could see companies try to meet or exceed their goals sooner, which will only be good news for us and the planet.