Uber is making it possible for passengers to track the emissions they have managed to avoid by picking “green” rides, as part of an extension of its sustainability commitments.
Announced at an event held at London’s BAFTA 195 Piccadilly, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi laid out the company’s plans to bring its Uber Eats service into its sustainability mission, promising to eliminate all emissions on deliveries through the platform by 2040, and to end the use of unnecessary plastic waste by restaurant partners by 2030.
The build on Uber’s existing sustainability commitments of becoming zero-emissions in London by 2025, in Europe and North America by 2030, and globally by 2040.
“Driving down emissions is the defining challenge of our generation, and every day we make dozens of choices that impact the planet, from the food we eat to the transportation we choose,” said Dara Khosrowshahi, Uber CEO. “While our personal values guide these decisions, convenience does too, which is why Uber is making it easier for millions to make greener choices, one ride and delivery at a time. The small changes we’re announcing today add up to something big: building sustainability into the core user experience across our global platform to reach our zero-emissions goals together.”
Riders will soon be able to track the emissions and fuel they are avoiding by choosing “Green” and “Comfort Electric” rides, while benefiting from airport-related perks when choosing the options at select airports in Portland, Oregon; Phoenix, Arizona; Madrid; and London. Uber is also expanding its Carshare product, which allows people to borrow cars from others.
Meanwhile, drivers will be presented eco-friendly routes which don’t increase the time and fare of the trip, while electric vehicle (EV) drivers will gain smart charging features, telling them information such as charger prices, charging time, and traffic.
