Facebook vs Reddit

This comparison uses the current IdleForest model for Facebook and Reddit: their category, modeled CO2 per use unit, methodology notes, key drivers, and assumptions.

Supporting comparison page

Facebook

Social

65g

CO2 / HOUR

Higher emissions

Social

25g

CO2 / HOUR

Data-backed comparison

Summary

When comparing Facebook and Reddit, Facebook generates significantly more CO2 emissions per hour (65g) than Reddit (25g). Both applications rely on devices, networks, and server infrastructure, which all contribute to their environmental impact.

Why the gap happens

Facebook is modeled at 65g CO2 per unit, while Reddit is modeled at 25g, so the visible gap is 40g in the current dataset.
Both products sit in the Social category, so the difference comes from the per-product estimate and page-level methodology fields rather than a category change.
The estimate treats Facebook as a media-rich social feed where autoplay, image loading, ads, and long mobile sessions are the main drivers.
Autoplay, recommendation loops, and image/video-heavy feeds extend session length.

What to act on first

Because Facebook is higher in the current model, start there: Disable autoplay and cut accidental scroll time where possible.

Facebook is currently modeled at 40g CO2 more per unit of use than Reddit.

Deep dive into their footprints

Read the full Facebook report Read the full Reddit report

Comparison takeaways

Facebook is modeled at 65g CO2 per unit, while Reddit is modeled at 25g, so the visible gap is 40g in the current dataset.

Both products sit in the Social category, so the difference comes from the per-product estimate and page-level methodology fields rather than a category change.

About IdleForest

IdleForest is a desktop app that plants trees in the background while your computer is idle. It uses your unused internet bandwidth to fund reforestation projects.

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