5 Most Environmentally Friendly States in America

In this article, we will take a look at the 5 most environmentally friendly states in America. For detailed coverage of this topic and a more comprehensive list, please look at the 20 Most Environmentally Friendly states in America.

5. Maryland

Overall Score: 2.08

Maryland, situated in the Mid-Atlantic region, is the fifth most environmentally friendly state in America, according to a recent WalletHub report. It has the second-highest number of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified buildings per capita in the country.

4. New Jersey

Overall Score: 2.16

New Jersey is committed to use 100% clean energy by 2035. Additionally, through its statewide EV program, Partnership to Plug-in, the state is also actively promoting the deployment of 330,000 zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) on its roads by 2025.

3. Oregon

Overall Score: 2.38

Oregon residents can take advantage of financial incentives designed by the state to encourage the use of renewable energy. According to the EIA, renewable energy sources, led by hydroelectric power (51%), accounted for 70% of all power generated in the state last year.

2. Washington

Overall Score: 2.77

Washington is renowned as one of the greenest states in the United States. Last year, the state generated more electricity from hydropower than any other state, accounting for 31% of total utility-scale hydroelectric generation in the country.

Furthermore, Washington is one of the few states in the US with more than 100,000 EVs.

1. California

Overall Score: 2.86

California is at the top of our list of the most environmentally friendly states in America. Last August, the California Air Resources Board issued a rule that bans the sale of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035.

This eco-conscious state also topped our list of the 20 states with the most electric vehicles, both in terms of total EVs and EVs per capita.

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