Taking care of Mother Earth is more important than ever. The UN Development Programme cites a staggering statistic that up to 13 million tons of plastic are leaked into the ocean annually (that’s about one garbage truck into the ocean every minute!). This Earth Day, we’ve rounded up a few easy ways to make a difference for the environment as a Local Guide. Read on and let us know in the comments which of these you’re already doing.
1. Update recycling attributes
Does your local supermarket recycle plastic bottles? Or does your neighborhood electronics store collect used batteries? In a few easy steps, you can support the businesses that do their part and help people in your community discover more places that accept recyclables:
- 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, tap on descriptions, and submit.
Fun fact: According to Google Trends, the top 5 most searched “…recycling near me” terms for 2021 in the U.S. were metal, electronic, cardboard, battery, and cans!
2. Add sustainability details to your reviews
Local Guide Rebeca is a biologist who believes it’s her job to make the world a better place. One way she does this is through her reviews on Google Maps. She often shares helpful details, like if a place offers disposable cutlery or collects waste separately.
3. Map recycling centers and drop-off locations
Wondering where to start? Check out Cecilia’s post on recycling categories on Google Maps and join Ermes’s challenge to add recycling drop-off centers to the map. For more on the topic, explore the #LetsRecycle community initiative on Connect.
4. Create dedicated lists
These could be of places that accept a specific type of recyclables or electric vehicle charging stations. Two great examples are Sebastián’s Google Maps list of containers for batteries, textiles, and more in Argentina and Hiroyuki’s list of charging stations in Japan.
5. Share photos of green options
A true hometown hero, Alexander was the first to add photos to this glass recycling center and this charging station in Kansas City, Missouri, making it easy for others to find them.
While these are just a few of the ways you can make a difference on Google Maps, the change toward a more sustainable future starts at home. Looking for ideas? Here are some from incredible Local Guides who are passionate about sustainability:
- Repurpose old containers and plastic bottles like Maria and Pritish;
- Compost your food waste like Penny;
- Get creative and make bags from recycled coffee sachets like Devi;
- Support local recycling initiatives like Jesi.
You can even take it one step further. Get your community involved and organize a cleaning meet-up inspired by Ermes’s global Local Guides Clean the World campaign (which recently celebrated its fourth anniversary!).
Have you used the recycling attributes on Google Maps? How do you support sustainability? Let us know below.
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