1.
Open the Chrome Web Store Listing
Click “Add to Chrome — It’s Free” on this page. It opens the official IdleForest listing on the Chrome Web Store.
tree planting chrome extension
The Free Tree Planting Chrome Extension
IdleForest is a free Chrome extension that plants verified trees while you browse. It runs in the background and uses the internet bandwidth you are not using to fund tree-planting projects. You add it in one click. There is no account, no payment, and nothing to change about how you browse.
Add to Chrome — It’s Free
Prefer a desktop app?Download for Mac / Windows
Featured on Chrome Web Store · 4.8 ★ from 33 reviews · 1,000+ users · 5,364 verified trees planted
Official store install
Chrome Web Store
Installs in one click
Uses spare bandwidth
No search-engine switch
Funds verified trees
What the IdleForest Extension Does
Once installed, the extension sits quietly in your browser. It uses your idle bandwidth, the part of your connection you are not using, to run small data tasks for paying clients. The revenue from those tasks funds tree planting with verified partners.
You do not have to do anything after you install it. You do not switch your search engine, change a setting, or visit a special site. You browse the way you always have, and trees get funded in the background.
See exactly how it worksHow to Add IdleForest to Chrome
Installing takes about ten seconds. There are three steps.
2.
Click “Add to Chrome”
On the store listing, click the blue “Add to Chrome” button, then confirm. Chrome installs the extension in a few seconds.
3.
You’re Done
That is it. The extension starts running on its own. You do not need to create an account, sign in, or change any setting. Trees begin to get funded as you browse.
Why IdleForest Beats Other Tree-Planting Extensions
Most tree-planting extensions ask you to change a habit: switch your search engine, click an ad, or open a new tab to plant. IdleForest asks for none of that. You install it once, then forget it.
| IdleForest | Search-engine extensions | New-tab / click extensions | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effort | Install once, forget | Switch your search engine | Open tabs, click to plant |
| How trees are funded | Idle bandwidth | Search ads | Display ads per tab |
| Changes your browsing | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cost | Free, no signup | Free | Free |
Compare in detail:IdleForest vs Ecosia·9 alternatives to Ecosia
Trees You Can Verify
5,364 trees planted
$2,796 contributed
10.1M requests powered
1,000+ users
The extension funds planting with three reforestation partners: Trees for the Future, Tree-Nation, and 1ClickImpact. Each one publishes its planting records, and each works in regions where reforestation has measurable carbon and biodiversity impact. You can see the full breakdown on the transparency page.
Read our full transparency reportFrequently Asked Questions
Is the Chrome extension free?
Yes. There is no cost, no subscription, and no donation. The extension is funded by the revenue from idle bandwidth tasks, not by you.
Will the extension slow down Chrome or my internet?
No. It uses only the bandwidth you are not using, and it steps back the moment you need it. When you start a video call, open a heavy site, or download a file, the extension backs off. Your browsing keeps its full speed.
Is the extension safe?
Yes. IdleForest is featured on the Chrome Web Store and rated 4.8 stars from 33 reviews. It runs in the background and touches only spare bandwidth, not your personal data.
What permissions does it need?
The extension needs the permissions Chrome requires to run background network tasks. It does not read your tabs, your bookmarks, or your browsing history. You can review the permissions on the store listing before you install.
Does it work with Ecosia or other extensions?
Yes. IdleForest does not change your search engine or your other extensions. It runs alongside Ecosia, ad blockers, and anything else you already use. You can stack the impact.
How do the trees get planted?
The extension uses your idle bandwidth to run small data tasks for paying clients. That revenue funds planting with Trees for the Future, Tree-Nation, and 1ClickImpact. You can see the live count on the transparency page.
How do I remove the extension?
Right-click the IdleForest icon in Chrome and choose remove, or manage it from the extensions menu. Once removed, no bandwidth is used. The trees you have already funded stay funded.
Is there a version for Mac or Windows?
Yes. If you would rather run it outside the browser, IdleForest has a desktop app for Mac and Windows. The desktop app can fund more trees because it runs even when Chrome is closed.
Add IdleForest to Chrome in 10 Seconds
One click to install. Browse like you always do. Watch trees get planted.