How about switching from Google Chrome to Ecosia?

Have you ever stopped to think about the impact your internet usage has on the world? Google Chrome dominates the browser competition, but I must inform you that it is not the best choice for the planet. Today, I want to talk about Ecosia, a browser that turns internet searches into real tree donations.

What is Ecosia?

The Ecosia browser was created in 2009 in Germany with a simple proposal: to use the profits generated from internet searches to plant trees. Instead of fueling a system based on data collection for targeted advertising (like Google does), the green-icon browser invests its excess profits in environmental projects around the world. As of early october, according to Ecosia’s own data, over 240 million trees have been planted in regions affected by deforestation, thanks to every search entered in the Ecosia browser.

In contrast, Google announced early this year that it will adopt a flexible approach to the use of artificial intelligence. This change removes the previous explicit ban on the development of weapons.

So it’s easy! You can choose between a browser that facilitates death or one that plants trees. 🌱

Screenshot of the Ecosia browser homepage

Ecosia’s Actions

In Brazil, one of Ecosia’s main initiatives is supporting the reforestation of the Biodiversity Corridor in Pontal do Paranapanema, São Paulo. The project, launched in 2019 in partnership with the Ipê Group, has already planted over 800.000 native seedlings of the Atlantic Forest in the region.

In Malawi, a country in East Africa (between Mozambique and Zimbabwe), Ecosia funded the planting of 3 million native trees between 2020 and 2021.

But is Ecosia good to use?

You can answer that by testing it yourself. But I can already tell you the answer is yes! The user experience with Ecosia is similar to Chrome, but without the weight of Google on your conscience.

If you care about sustainability and want to browse the internet more consciously, it’s worth giving Ecosia a chance. Small choices make a difference — and in this case, they help build a healthier planet for future generations. 🌱