TreeSearch

Inspiration

We were fascinated by Ecosia, which performs a similar function but, unfortunately, is not used, as it is a completely separate browser/search engine. We decided to create this extension to let users use their desired browser while every search they make is counted and sent to Ecosia to help with its mission.

What it does

TreeSearch is a Chrome extension that transforms your everyday Google searches into a positive impact on the environment. With TreeSearch, each search query contributes to the planting of a tree somewhere in the world. Imagine a browsing experience where every click counts toward a greener, healthier planet. By seamlessly integrating into your Google search routine, TreeSearch empowers users to make a tangible difference without any extra effort. As you explore the web, our extension collaborates with environmental organizations to plant trees, combat deforestation, and promote sustainability.

How we built it

Our approach to this project was to divide and conquer. We divided our project into 3 parts for the 3 of us - Google Cloud API and database facilitation, OpenAI API and server management, and front end. If any of us faced problems in development, our teammates would help us. Once we completed our respective tasks, we integrated our contributions together to build the final product.

Challenges we ran into

In each step of development, we faced a significant challenge. In creating the Google Cloud backend and node.js servers, we were challenged to interact with unfamiliar technologies. Tunneling our computer's local host to internet proved to be a huge challenge. However, each challenge we faced encouraged us to work not just individually but as a team, and the resulting collaboration gave us successful results.

What we learned

In our collaborative project, we learned how to connect Google Cloud APIs to our Node.js servers, unraveling the intricacies of cloud integration. This experience not only enhanced our technical proficiency but also showcased our ability to bridge different technologies, fostering a holistic understanding of modern web ecosystems. The project stands as a testament to both our technical and teamwork skills.