What if every online question could plant a tree?
It might sound idealistic, yet over the last twelve years nearly 170 million trees have been replanted at the push of a button in 30 countries. This is the frontier being explored by a search engine whose mission is to protect the environment by restoring vegetation in places facing heavy deforestation. It uses ad revenue from searches to fund tree planting where it is most needed. A simple search for a recipe or a fact can be paired with real, lasting environmental impact. In moments, users contribute to reforestation efforts in regions such as Burkina Faso, Uganda, Brazil, the United States, Australia, and Indonesia. Each tree planted supports habitat restoration, agricultural resilience, and climate change mitigation.
On average, about 45 calls are needed to plant a single tree. The search interface shares information about how, where, and why trees are planted, along with insights into the organization’s resource management and financial transparency.
Ecosia considers the local characteristics of each planting site. The goal is to reintroduce species native to each area and to work closely with local communities and partner organizations to support reforestation and deepen ecological knowledge.
The idea for Ecosia began in 2009 after the company’s leadership undertook a global trip to understand deforestation impacts. Between 2009 and 2011, the concept gained traction across Europe, and by 2014 the company earned B Corporation certification, becoming the first German company to receive this designation. This accreditation recognizes a business that builds a more inclusive and sustainable economy for people and the planet.
To meet high standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability, a strong track record is essential. By June 2019 Ecosia had planted 60 million trees, and today the total is approaching 143 million.
Performance in Spain
Spain participates in this global initiative as well. The southern regions face rapid desertification, threatening a portion of fruit and vegetable crops and a wide range of species. Ecosia began operating in Spain in 2017, resulting in the restoration of 240 hectares and the planting of 138,253 trees. The Alvelal Association collaborates with Ecosia on these efforts. This alliance unites farmers, business leaders, researchers, and everyday citizens with a shared goal: to improve the socio economic and environmental conditions of vulnerable regions while countering threats like depopulation and desertification. The aim is sustainable local economies that value crop produce and create lasting jobs, aligning closely with Ecosia’s mission.
The effort goes beyond planting trees. Ecosia helps identify economical alternatives and business opportunities to ensure action endures and grows. In Spain, for example, programs address the rural age gap, as many farm workers are between 40 and 45 years old. One project, Millennial at Work, seeks to attract younger generations to farming to sustain essential land management and local entrepreneurship.
Similar country-specific projects adapt to regional needs, whether restoring ecosystems in Brazil to protect the Amazon or supporting regenerative agriculture compatible with forest recovery. Planting trees in Brazil strengthens forest health, while Ecosia also assists Brazilian farmers in adopting practices that harmonize production with conservation.
In each place, the goals differ. Brazil faces a different set of challenges than Burkina Faso, where the aim is to restore land that has become barren and where heavy rains can damage infrastructure. Since 2014, the Burkina Faso program has planted more than 15 million trees across 14,137 hectares, engaging communities in seed preparation and site planning to ensure local participation and ownership.
When native trees flourish, the broader benefits emerge. In Indonesia, for instance, where palm oil plantations have replaced large forest areas, new planting aims to introduce farming methods that respect ecological balance and reduce pressure on forests. Ecosia keeps inviting new users to contribute to this ongoing venture, turning everyday online activity into tangible environmental impact.
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Environmental action contact: [redacted]