Ecosia

ECOSIA
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It's been two weeks since my last blog. I had some rest during spring break (for those of you who haven't had it yet, hang in there!). Now that I'm full of energy again, here's a new ICT tool.

Although Ecosia is not necessarily a tool that's brand new in its features - because it's "just" a search engine - I do think it is worth discussing. As a society we're in the middle of a digital era. Using devices instead of paper is already a step forward, however, there's more to do.

Ecosia is a search engine, founded in 2009, that donates 80% of their profit generated by ads to planting trees. Apart from an English teacher, I'm also a biology teacher, which is why I can only support such a great idea.

Ecosia works like any other search engine. In the four months that I've used it, I have not been able to discover any disadvantages compared to other search engines. The website comes with a plug-in that can be installed to search more easily. The fun thing about Ecosia is though, that it shows you how many trees have been planted thanks to your searches. I'm currently at 84, who can beat me?

Introducing Ecosia to your students, will not only provide them with an easy opportunity to contribute to a better environment, but it will hopefully also make them realise that companies earn money, even if their services are available for free, and that they have a say in where the money is going to be spent on, by simply choosing their preferred website. Small steps make a difference!


Requirements
- Device
- Internet connection

Pros
- Plant trees as you search
- Raise awareness about the environment and online businesses

Cons
- None. Have you found any?

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