Photos: Green tech giants
Google and Microsoft work to reduce energy use and promote sustainability as product battle heats up.
Staircase
A staircase of sustainably forested wood graces Building 43 of Google's Mountain View, Calif., headquarters. The walls of the building are layered with nontoxic cotton soundproofing material.
Open space
Whimsical remnants from the days when Google's campus belonged to SGI. Google opened up the space, turning multiple stories into a loft-like environment.
Light and airy
Google's Building 43 is light and airy, featuring natural wood and recyclable carpet.
Air ducts
Building 43 on Google's campus is a testament to Earth- and human-friendly characteristics. Exposed air ducts illustrate the company's function-over-form philosophy.
Tent office
Google's Building 43 features a prototype tent office.
Scooters
Electric scooters and bicycles make Google headquarters look more like a university campus than an office complex.
Hounds and happiness
Allowing Google employees to bring their dogs to work makes for a healthy, happy environment, say Googlers.
Shuttle
Free, wireless-Internet-equipped shuttle buses take Google workers from San Francisco and other cities to Mountain View.
Solar panels
An Olympic-size array of solar panels on the roof of Microsoft's Mountain View, Calif., campus.
Recycled carpet
Office and hallway floors at Microsoft's campus in Mountain View are covered with carpet made from recycled materials.
Water fountain
An outdoor water fountain sculpture at Microsoft's Mountain View campus.
Open area
Open area at Microsoft's campus in Mountain View.
Free shuttle
A free shuttle transports Microsoft workers in Mountain View.