April 22nd, 2017 is Earth Day so to celebrate we have compiled a list of the greenest cities from around the globe! Green cities are the ones who encourage and live the most sustainable lives. These cities implement things such as recycling programs, bike lanes, community parks, and high water quality standards. Despite the traffic, masses of people and air pollution associated with cities, green cities have an active approach towards fighting climate change and being environmentally friendly.
Want to be more environmentally friendly? Maybe you should move cities. Below we have listed the top 5 green cities in the world in 2016.
#5 - Stockholm, Sweden.
This Swedish city aims to encourage people to cycle as much as possible. They also take noise pollution quite seriously so they attempt to keep noise levels low. As well as these initiatives, Stockholm has ensured that proper recycling practices are high on their list of green priorities.
#4 Bristol, England.
The city of Bristol was announced Europe’s greenest city in the year 2015. They have seen the number of cyclists in the city double over the past few years. Bristol has set up initiatives such as the Bristol Climate Protection and Sustainable Energy Strategy, which act as proof of their commitment to counteracting climate change.
#3 - San Francisco, USA.
San Francisco was a trendsetter when it became the very first U.S. city to ban plastic grocery bags. The San Fran population have really grasped renewable energy and the city is known as America’s leader in solar energy use. In addition to these measures, local artists incorporate recycling into their art to inspire others to do the same.
#2 - Copenhagen, Norway.
Clean waterways and leadership in environmental planning won Copenhagen the European Environmental Award in 2006. The water system in place in Copenhagen includes a built in water quality warning system which constantly monitors pollution levels. Like San Fran, the Norwegians have also embraced renewable energy. There are more than 5600 windmills that supply over 10% of the country’s electricity.
#1 - Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Last but most certainly not least, we have Amsterdam, 2016’s greenest city! Amsterdam is possibly the most bicycle-friendly city in the world, boasting an amazing bicycle infrastructure. The city actually has more bicycle’s than people and cycling is the most common means of transport in Amsterdam.
The 5 cities listed here are certainly world leaders when it comes to being ‘green’ and eco-friendly, and the list also makes a pretty amazing bucket list of places to visit! Let us know which of these cities you’ve been to. Or let us know if you have experienced any other green cities from around the world!