More and more regions around the world are experiencing the effects of global warming caused by human activities. But our actions — even the smallest ones — can make a positive change.
For example, did you know that increasing global recycling rates has the potential to reduce ten gigatons of carbon? That’s the equivalent of ten times the annual carbon emissions of a country the size of Japan! And opting for a vegan or vegetarian meal can help save up to an additional 2,5 gigatons of CO2 from livestock production.
This Earth Month, we’ve rounded up a few easy ways you can make a difference for the environment as a Local Guide. Which of these are you already doing?
Update sustainability attributes
Whether you’re visiting a local supermarket or a new restaurant, you can easily let others know if the place accepts recyclables or offers a plant-based menu by following these steps:
- Find a Business Profile on Google Maps mobile.
- Select About in the tabs bar, then tap Edit features (for Android) or Update this place (for iOS).
- Scroll to Recycling for businesses and Offerings for restaurants, tap on the descriptions, and submit.
Recycling attributes are now available for most business types worldwide.
Answer quick questions about recycling
Sometimes, you’ll see questions from Google about the places you’ve been. Your answers can help others and improve the accuracy of Google Maps. To get prompts for these questions, search for a place you’ve been to before in your Maps app. Then, tap the place’s name or address, and at the bottom, next to “Know this place,” tap OK.
You can manage your answers through your Google Maps activity.
Map drinking fountains
According to the UN, 1 million plastic bottles are bought every minute, many of which end up in nature, polluting our land and water. You can help reduce this number by guiding others to water, free of charge and free of plastic.
Highlight plant-based options in reviews
Local Guide Mariam is always on the lookout for delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine to share on Google Maps wherever they go. Their reviews are full of mouthwatering details, and they answer review questions to make information about the menu, service, and more, stand out.
Create shareable lists
Make it easy to think green and choose sustainability by curating lists with your favorite locations. Looking for inspiration? Check out Jesi’s list of vegan ice cream spots in Buenos Aires and Rebeca’s recommendations for places to connect with nature around Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Your helpful contributions on Google Maps are one of many ways to positively impact the environment — and inspire others to do the same.
