Google is rolling out new updates to its Maps and Search apps to make eco-friendly travel choices more accessible and appealing. Soon, Google Maps will suggest public transit and walking options right next to car routes if the travel times are similar. This feature is launching in over fifteen cities worldwide, including places like Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Sydney, to name a few.
In addition to these changes in Maps, Google Search is expanding its features to help users easily find long-distance bus and train routes. This includes viewing schedules, comparing ticket prices, and accessing direct booking links—all seamlessly integrated into the search results. This update applies to trains across 38 countries and buses in 15 countries.
Google is also looking to nudge users towards greener alternatives to flying by suggesting train routes when they search for flights. Plus, Google Flights now provides insights into flight emissions, allowing users to see the environmental impact of their flights and opt for options that emit less carbon, thanks to the Travel Impact Model (TIM) introduced last year.
To top it off, Google is making these TIM estimates more widely available through a new developer API, an add-on for Google Sheets, and a user-friendly calculator on the TIM website. This move aims to make it easier for everyone to consider the environmental impact of their travel choices.
New features introduced in Google:
- See public transit and walking suggestions next to driving routes in Maps.
- Find long-distance train and bus routes with schedules and ticket prices in Search.
- Compare flight emissions and filter by lower-emitting options in Google Flights.
- Access flight emissions estimates through a developer API, Google Sheets add-on and calculator.
