Google has taken a significant stride in gathering data related to climate change with the launch of three groundbreaking Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) as part of the Google Maps Platform and AI for the environment. These APIs harness the power of artificial intelligence, machine learning, aerial imagery, and environmental data to deliver real-time information on critical environmental factors: solar potential, air quality, and pollen levels.

The first AI for the environment, Solar API, provides insights into the solar potential of rooftops, and helps individuals and businesses determine the suitability of using solar panels. The tool can currently provide estimates of potential energy generation for more than 320 million buildings across 40 countries.

The Air Quality API, available for over 100 countries, equips users with pollution data, including heatmaps and pollutant details. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions on their daily activities and offers governments a valuable tool for improving air quality monitoring and enforcement.

Lastly, for allergy sufferers, the Pollen API could be a game-changer, delivering hourly updates on pollen counts for common allergens in over 65 countries. This data allows users to make healthier choices about undertaking outdoor activities during peak pollen times, or whether  to take preventative medication.

Google’s APIs and other AI for the environment, are a powerful resource for addressing environmental concerns and are usable by many parties. Businesses can use them for informing sustainable energy solutions, cities can enhance policies and protect public health, and individuals can make eco- and health-conscious choices about their homes and activities. These tools offer an innovative way forward: using AI in a productive fashion and empowering the global effort to face environmental challenges. 

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