Don’t be evil” is Google’s informal corporate motto. Far from being evil, Google is trying to use its vast wealth to do good. Since becoming a public company in 2004, it has set aside 1 percent of its equity and profits — around $1 billion — to fund good causes and invest in promising technologies.

For example, Google.org, the mega search engine’s philanthropic arm, has invested $2.75 million each in Aptera Motors of California and ActaCell of Texas. Aptera is designing a fuel-efficient car that combines an aerodynamic shape, lightweight materials, and electric hybrid technology. ActaCell is developing a better battery for such vehicles, which can be charged by plugging them into an electrical outlet. The goal is to develop cars that can cruise for 100 miles on one gallon of gas.

Google.org also supports projects in developing renewable energy sources that are cheaper than coal, halting emerging infectious diseases, improving public services in developing countries, and investing in small-to-medium-sized businesses in developing countries. Google employees are encouraged to take time to do charitable work. Founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin say they want to “address some of the world’s most urgent problems.”  They’ve certainly put their company’s money where their mouths are.

Photo by Robert Cardin

Check out the aptera car that Google invested in!

Filed under: Computer, Environmental, Explore Engineering

Tags: Computer, Environmental, Green Technology, renewable energy