Our data centers are designed to use as little energy as possible

We drive down the cost and environmental impact of running our data centers by designing and building our own facilities. We install smart temperature controls, use “free-cooling” techniques like using outside air or reused water for cooling, and redesign how power is distributed to reduce unnecessary energy loss. We can only improve upon what we measure, so we calculate the performance of each facility using comprehensive efficiency measurements.

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We recycle 100% of the electronic equipment that leaves our data centers

Since 2007, we've repurposed enough outdated servers to avoid buying over 300,000 new replacement machines. Before we buy new equipment and materials, we look for ways to reuse what we already have. When we can’t find a new use for our equipment, we completely erase any components that store data, and then resell them into the market—giving our equipment a second life.

Our high standards are certified

We're the first major Internet services company to gain external certification of our high environmental, workplace safety and energy management standards throughout our data centers. Specifically, we received voluntary ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001 and ISO 50001 certifications. In a nutshell, these standards are built around a very simple concept: Say what you’re going to do, then do what you say—and then keep improving.

We collaborate to move the industry forward

We believe that industry collaboration is important to driving sustainability in the technology sector. We do this by supporting research and bringing thought leaders together to share challenges and best practices.

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We promote green commuting

We’ve built a green transportation system that includes biodiesel shuttles and the largest corporate electric vehicle charging system in the country. Every day, our shuttles keep thousands of Googlers out of the driver's seat. Our on-campus car-sharing program includes the next generation of plug-in vehicles.

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We're committed to sustainable food

Google is committed to offering nutritious, flavorful food to employees on all of our campuses worldwide. We provide healthy choices, local tastes and plenty of variety in the most responsible way possible. Social and environmental responsibility are built into every part of our food program: from the partnerships we develop with farmers and suppliers to our efforts to minimize waste.

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We build greener, healthier workplaces

We work hard to create the healthiest, most productive work environments possible for Googlers around the world. We create buildings that function like living and breathing systems by optimizing access to nature, clean air and daylight. Three of our key initiatives as part of this effort include eliminating dangerous substances, designing energy-efficient buildings and continually measuring and improving upon how we operate our buildings.

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