Top Chrome Extensions for Environmental Impact: Ecosia and More

Idle ForestIdle Forest
3 min read

Want to help the environment while browsing? These Chrome extensions let you contribute to climate action with minimal effort. By integrating these tools into your daily browsing routine, you can make a significant impact on environmental conservation and sustainability.

Top 5 Environmental Chrome Extensions Compared

1. IdleForest - Best for Passive Impact

IdleForest

IdleForest is perfect for those who want to contribute to environmental efforts without altering their browsing habits. This extension plants trees as you browse, providing a seamless way to support reforestation.

Key Benefits:

  • Zero changes to browsing experience

  • Install once, runs in background

  • Real-time tree planting visualization

2. Ecosia - Best for Active Searchers

Ecosia

Ecosia is a search engine that funds tree planting programs. By using Ecosia for your searches, you can help plant trees and track the positive impact you're making on the environment.

Key Benefits:

  • Tree count tracking

  • Impact statistics

  • Similar to standard search Note: Requires changing default search engine

3. Tab for a Cause - Best for Multiple Causes

Tab for a Cause

Tab for a Cause allows you to generate charitable donations through new tab ads. This extension supports various causes, making it a versatile choice for those who want to contribute to multiple environmental and social initiatives.

Key Benefits:

  • Choice of charities

  • Impact tracking

  • Custom new tab page Note: Requires using their new tab page

4. OceanHero - Best for Ocean Conservation

OceanHero

OceanHero is a search engine dedicated to supporting ocean cleanup efforts. By switching your default search engine to OceanHero, you can help remove plastic from the oceans with every search.

Key Benefits:

  • Ocean impact tracking

  • Progress statistics

  • Standard search features Note: Requires changing default search engine

5. Our Forest - Alternative to Ecosia

Our Forest

Our Forest offers a new tab page that supports reforestation efforts. By using this extension, you can contribute to tree planting initiatives every time you open a new tab.

Key Benefits:

  • Forest impact tracking

  • Progress statistics

  • Advertisements from partners

  • Note: Requires changing default tab

Easy Comparison Table

ExtensionChanges RequiredImpact TypeEffort Level
IdleForestNoneTree plantingZero effort
EcosiaSearch engineTree plantingDaily searching
Tab for a CauseNew tab pageVarious causesOpening tabs
OceanHeroSearch engineOcean cleanupDaily searching
Our ForestNew tab pageTree plantingOpening tabs

How to Choose

The best extension depends on your browsing habits:

  • Want zero effort? IdleForest works automatically

  • Like searching? Try Ecosia or OceanHero

  • Open many tabs? Tab for a Cause or Our Forest fits well

By choosing the right Chrome extension, you can seamlessly integrate environmental action into your daily online activities, making a positive impact on the planet.

Last updated: May 2025

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Idle Forest
Idle Forest