Letter to the Editor - NY Times

TO THE EDITOR:

What would the world’s Internet users do without Google search engine or YouTube?  Giving out information on Google’s electricity use should not be considered “embarrassing.”  A significant amount of energy needs to be used in order for every Internet user to be able to use a cell phone or laptop for their everyday questions and searches.

Users of the Internet are probably not aware that a typical person uses enough watts that “are equivalent of running a 60-watt light bulb for three hours.” Google should be applauded for this acknowledgment and for the steps they have made to make their electricity use more green-friendly. Modern technology is used all over the world at all times of the day and night.  Instead of looking down on Google, Internet users and green supporters should ask themselves this; “How many times do I click the Google Search button?” 

ERIN SUNDVALL
Bemidji,Minn., Sept. 9,2011