Ecosia: Bringing a Greener Search Engine to the NHS

Abstract

Aims

The objective of this project was to switch the default search engine used on CNWL computers from Google/Bing to Ecosia. Both Google and Bing have poor ethical and environmental credentials. Ecosia, in contrast, is a not-for-profit, certified B-Corporation which funds tree planting and community projects around the world. Ecosia searches display ads (just like any other search engine) however it donates 100% of its profits towards high-impact agroforestry, tree planting and forest protection.

Methods

The first step was to pitch the proposal to the Trust's Sustainability Lead. Then, information governance and cyber security teams performed assessments and gave clearance. An ICT technician was allocated the task and they configured the switch for a pilot group of 38 staff, with the help of step-by-step guides produced by Ecosia. After a short trial, the pilot group completed a questionnaire. Following satisfactory feedback, the ICT technician switched the default search engine to Ecosia for the entire Trust staff group. A Trust-wide email informed staff of the change and provided opportunity for feedback to be given via an online survey.

Results

A CNWL tree count is sent monthly from Ecosia. Over the first four months, an estimated 32,872 trees were planted using the funding generated by CNWL.

The pilot survey showed 80% of participants agreed that CNWL should use Ecosia as its default search engine (0% = should not; 20% = undecided). 62% felt Ecosia performed the same as the previous search engine (14% = much better; 5% = somewhat better; 20% = somewhat worse; 0% = much worse). 86% said they would use Ecosia on their personal devices. Further comments included:“"This is a great initiative from the trust, who in many realms benefit private profit enterprises to the detriment of our planet.”;“"As a Trust, in addition to using Ecosia, we should look for other similar measures, on the grounds that every step towards sustainability makes a cumulative impact”"; “Google performs better than Ecosia”. It is noted that if an Ecosia search does not yield the required results, it can easily be switched to Google by clicking ‘More’ —> ‘Google’.

Conclusion

Switching to Ecosia is an achievable action that health organisations can take. Collectively we can fund the protection and regeneration of forests, which benefits people and the planet, and engages staff in climate action. The next step is for other Trusts to switch, with an ultimate goal of all NHS organisations using Ecosia.