The CEO of Uber says the ride-hailing firm is “on a mission to make it effortless” for riders to embrace “a low-emissions lifestyle” after launching a carbon footprint tracker for riders.
In its latest eco move, Uber has launched a new ‘Emissions Savings’ feature, which means that riders will be able to monitor their carbon footprint in the same way they would check their Uber user rating.
The initiative, which is being rolled out globally, tracks the effects of using Uber Green (its hybrid and fully electric offering) or Uber Comfort Electric (its fully electric car offering) to the effects of using the basic service.
It has been launched in the hope that the feature will encourage riders to use more eco-friendly options.
CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said: “We’re on a mission to make it effortless for Uber riders to embrace a low-emissions lifestyle.
Subscribe to Sustainability Beat for free
Sign up here to get the latest sustainability news sent straight to your inbox every day
“Starting today, we’re introducing the Emission Savings feature in the app, so riders around the world can track and learn more about their carbon emissions impact.
“We believe that knowledge is power. Just like we popularised rider ratings in an effort to promote respectful behaviour during Uber rides, we’re excited to launch this new feature to both celebrate your impact and encourage greener choices.”
The ride-hailing giant has already introduced measures to encourage drivers to move to eclectic vehicles and zero-emission options. One example of this is its electric car partnership with Hertz.
In a similar move earlier this month UEFA launched a carbon footprint calculator designed to help football clubs reduce their environmental impact by lowering emissions.
Earlier this year, the government’s pathway towards all cars and vans being zero emissions by 2035 was made into law.
