When it comes to search engines, Google is the clear leader. It has a global market share of over 92%. But what if you care about the environment and want to use a search engine that is more eco-friendly? Enter Ecosia, a search engine that plants trees with its ad revenue. But is Ecosia really better for the environment than Google? In this article, we’ll compare the two search engines and introduce an alternative option for those who want to plant trees while still using Google.
About Ecosia
First, let’s take a look at Ecosia. The main selling point of Ecosia is that it plants trees with its ad revenue. According to Ecosia, every search made on their platform results in the planting of one tree. This is achieved through partnerships with organizations that plant trees in areas of need, such as deforested areas and communities that rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. Ecosia also claims to use 100% renewable energy to power their servers and to be carbon neutral.
One of the biggest pros of using Ecosia is that it’s a simple and easy way to make a positive impact on the environment. By using Ecosia instead of Google, you can plant trees without having to do anything else. Additionally, Ecosia is transparent about its tree planting efforts, allowing users to see the exact location and number of trees planted through their platform.
Cons of Ecosia
However, there are also some cons to using Ecosia. One is that it may not be as accurate or comprehensive as Google. Ecosia uses the Bing search engine to power its searches, which may not be as advanced as Google’s algorithm.
About Google
Now, let’s take a look at Google. Google is the most popular search engine in the world and for good reason. Its search algorithm is extremely accurate and comprehensive, making it the go-to choice for billions of people around the world. Additionally, Google has made efforts to become more eco-friendly, such as using renewable energy to power its servers and investing in carbon offset projects.
Pros of Google
One of the biggest pros of using Google is its accuracy and comprehensiveness. Google’s search algorithm is the most advanced in the world, making it the best choice for finding the information you need. Additionally, Google’s massive market share means that it generates a lot of ad revenue, some of which can be used for eco-friendly initiatives.
Cons of Google
However, there are also some cons to using Google. One is that it’s not as focused on the environment as Ecosia. While Google has made efforts to become more eco-friendly, it doesn’t have the same environmental mission as Ecosia. Additionally, Google’s sheer size and market share can make it difficult for smaller, more eco-friendly search engines to compete.
So, is Ecosia or Google better for searching? The answer isn’t clear cut. Ecosia’s main focus is on the environment and it plants trees with every search, but it may not be as accurate or comprehensive as Google. On the other hand, Google is the most popular and accurate search engine in the world, but it’s not as environmentally focused as Ecosia.
Using Google AND planting trees?
If you want to plant trees while still using Google, there is an alternative option available. The browser extension TreeClicks allows you to plant trees while using Google (or any other search engine). When you use TreeClicks, a portion of the ad revenue generated from your shopping at one of their 30,000+ connected shops, is used to plant trees through partnerships with reforestation organizations. This means that you can continue to use your preferred search engine while also making a positive impact on the environment.

Or use Search For Trees, which is a search engine that is powered by the Google search engine. It plants a higher percentage than Ecosia of their ad revenue (60%) to tree planting.
Conclusion: Ecosia vs Google
In conclusion, both Ecosia and Google have their pros and cons when it comes to the environment. Ecosia plants trees with every search and is transparent about its efforts, but may not be as accurate or comprehensive as Google. Google is the most popular and accurate search engine in the world, but it’s not as environmentally focused as Ecosia. However, for those who want to plant trees while still using Google, the browser extension TreeClicks is an alternative option worth considering. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to weigh the pros and cons and decide which search engine aligns best with their values and needs.
Also checkout our Ecosia vs DuckDuckGo comparison.