Starting April 22nd, Google is commemorating Earth Day by allowing businesses in Maps and Search to stipulate what recycling is available on site. This was no surprise following a big update last month when Google recently proclaimed eco-friendly routing possibilities.

Businesses will be encouraged to easily add any information on their local pages regarding what items they recycle. This can include items such as “clothing, electronics, batteries, household hazardous waste, light bulbs, plastic foam and glass bottles”. In addition, visitors will be encouraged to address questions to “aid crowdsourcing”.

It gets better: If a user at a specific location/business recycles a certain material, “they can also suggest an edit to their Business Profile to help let others know“.

What does this mean to your business?

An environmentally conscious business considers more than just returns — it considers its influence on society and the environment. Nearly 70% of consumers in the U.S. and Canada think it is important that a brand is sustainable or eco-friendly, according to a new study by IBM and the National Retail Federation. Take the time and make sure you’re  communicating your recycling initiatives on your local pages, you are  doing a favor to your planet but also your customers. Today’s clients are ready to change their shopping habits and pay a premium for brands that provide this type of information.

Look ahead, this is the future!

Source: 9to5Google