This article presents an overview of the 5 Greenest Countries in the World. For a detailed overview of the 20 Greenest Countries with insights into Environmental Performance Index (EPI) score, read our article 20 Greenest Countries in the World.
5. Sweden
Environment Performance Index Score: 72.27
With abundant renewable energy resources, commitment to innovation, and a strong social safety net, Sweden is a model for other countries to follow. Sweden is also working to reduce its transportation emissions. Sweden’s new national transport infrastructure plan will invest a record SKr 881bn ($US 86.6bn) in 2022-2027. It is a country committed to protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for its citizens.
4. Malta
Environment Performance Index Score: 75.2
Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, is at the forefront of the green revolution. One of the most impressive things about Malta’s green credentials is its commitment to renewable energy. It has made strides in clean energy, with 12.2% of its energy coming from renewables. Malta is also working to reduce its transportation emissions. The country has a well-developed public transportation system and is investing heavily in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. The country spends almost €6 million monthly on public transport, or €72 million yearly.
3. Finland
Environment Performance Index Score: 76.5
Finland uses its abundant forest resources, as its 65% area is covered with forest, to replace fossil-based chemicals with renewable raw materials, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Finland is also working to reduce its transportation emissions. The country has a well-developed public transportation system and is investing heavily in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. Finland has also set ambitious targets.
2. United Kingdom
Environment Performance Index Score: 77.7
The UK is a leader in green research and innovation. The country is home to some of the world’s top universities and research institutions, which are working to develop new technologies and solutions to the climate crisis. The UK also invests in renewable energy, with a 100% clean electricity target by 2035. The UK government invests heavily in green projects, such as offshore wind farms, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. It is also home to the world’s first commercial floating wind farm, the Hywind Scotland pilot project.
1. Denmark
Environment Performance Index Score: 77.9
Denmark is a world leader in renewable energy and green technologies, with over 60% of its land cultivated for agriculture and a strong focus on waste reduction and recycling. Moreover, Denmark aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and increase renewable energy production, and it is investing heavily in green projects and transport control. Denmark leads Europe in zero-emission urban buses, with electric buses accounting for 78% of its new vehicles. Denmark has several policies in place to control transport emissions. For example, Denmark has a congestion charge in Copenhagen, which has banned the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars from 2030.
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