Google’s Campaign Reduces Carbon Levels

July 8, 2011

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. commercialize (v.) [kuh-mur-shuh-lahyz] – to make  something available to customers
Example: The hotel owners are commercializing the beaches.

2. plug-in (adj.) [pluhg] [in] – describes something that can be connected to an electrical source by a plug
Example: I use a plug-in charger whenever I travel.
   
3. sustainable (adj.) [suh-stey-nuh-buhl] – something that can be maintained for a long period of time
Example: I have to find a sustainable source of income in order to survive.

4. viable (adj.) [vahy-uh-buhl] – something that can work successfully
Example: The proposed investment is economically viable.

5. emission (n.) [ih-mish-uhn] – the act of sending out or releasing a substance
Example: Carbon emission harms the environment

Article
Read the text below.
Google's green campaign proves to be helpful in saving the environment. 

In its recent blog entry, the company talks about the success of its RechargeIT project which started in 2007.  Aimed at reducing the use of oil and the levels of carbon dioxide in the air, the program is designed to speed up the commercialization of electric vehicles by testing them inside the company’s headquarters.

As part of the project, Google bought numerous Toyota Prius and Ford Escape electric cars, collectively known as "Gfleet." Employees use this set of plug-in cars to run errands and go around the company premises. The company also launched shuttles that use environment-friendly fuel in order to reduce gas emissions caused by passenger vehicles.

Four years after the start of the campaign, Google claims to have stopped 5,400 tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to removing two thousand vehicles off the road each day.

In addition, employees who experienced the benefits of electric cars were inspired to buy their own electric cars.

With the success of RechargeIT, Google continues to prove that environment-friendly means of transportation are sustainable and viable. The company hopes to inspire other organizations to apply green technology in their companies.



Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A 

·         Do you think it is feasible to replace all fueled cars with electric ones in the next 20 years? Why or why not?
·         What are the advantages and disadvantages of electric cars over fueled cars?

Discussion B

·         Do you think it is worth it to spend a lot on making electric cars?
·         Would you consider buying an electric car? Why or why not?

July 8, 2011