Google Cloud introduced two new startup accelerators focused on climate solutions in a move to make 2023 the year technology will "unblock and accelerate decarbonization of the economy," Justin Keeble, Google Cloud managing director for global sustainability, and Adam Elman, head of sustainability for Google Cloud EMEA, wrote in a blog.

Sustainability-driven business decisions are crucial for organizations to successfully navigate increasing stakeholder pressure and the tangible effects of climate change. Since startups tend to be unburdened by government regulation or the opinions of investors and public shareholders that larger enterprises like Google deal with, that startup ecosystem "plays a pivotal role" in supporting larger enterprise progress toward sustainable business operations, the executives explained.

The two new programs, focused on North America and Europe and Israel, will identify, support, and scale startups building technology that addresses climate change. Accepted startups will be matched with Google Cloud's network of experts for advice, mentorship, and support throughout a variety of subjects and domains. The accelerators, however, will focus mainly on cloud technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) with the goal of advancing young startups' business and tech.

"This is the first time we’re running the program in Europe, and we’re looking forward to welcoming participants in our region at a critical time," Keeble and Elman said.

According to Implement Consulting Group (ICG) research commissioned by the cloud provider, digital technology holds significant potential to positively impact the decarbonization processes of all economic sectors.

The study revealed between 2003 and 2019, the most digital economies in the European Union (EU) reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 25% while growing their economies by 30%. The least digital EU economies, on the other hand, reduced GHG emissions and grew economies by just 18%.

The EU committed to building a climate-neutral economy by 2050 – a feat that will require digitalization and technology to enable those operational efficiencies. "European companies will be looking to startups for new technologies and solutions to accelerate their transformation," the executives noted.