This brief article discusses the 8 most eco-friendly countries and their measures to mitigate rapid climate change. For a deeper understanding of global climate conservation efforts, read 15 Countries That Care About The Environment The Most.
8. Estonia
Insider Monkey Rating: 8
Estonia has committed to reducing GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions by 70% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. Currently, renewable energy sources account for approximately 27% of the country’s total electricity production, with wind contributing 15%. Initiatives like the “Estonian Green Movement” spotlight forest conservation and sustainable forestry, especially given that forests cover about 57% of the nation. These nature restoration projects preserve unique habitats and serve as carbon sinks.
7. The Netherlands
Insider Monkey Rating: 7
The Netherlands grapples with sea-level rise and land reclamation challenges, necessitating sustainable innovation. The nation has adopted comprehensive measures like green public procurement and waste reduction, setting an ambitious goal of achieving a circular economy by 2050. By 2020, over 17% of its energy was derived from renewable sources, spurred by significant wind and solar energy investments. The Dutch “Room for the River” program also emphasizes river ecosystem health while addressing flood risks and promoting biodiversity conservation.
6. Switzerland
Insider Monkey Rating: 6
According to Sustainable Governance Indicators, Switzerland is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, using 1990 as a baseline. Switzerland is acutely aware of environmental changes, particularly evident in its receding glaciers. The country sources over 60% of its electricity from hydroelectric power, underscoring a longstanding dedication to renewable energy. The Swiss Biodiversity Strategy, initiated in 2012, details numerous conservation measures for flora and fauna.
5. Austria
Insider Monkey Rating: 5
Austria heavily relies on renewable energy sources, with 77% of its energy coming from renewables, predominantly hydropower. The country’s ÖkoKauf Wien initiative emphasizes green public procurement and promotes sustainable products and services in public institutions. Austria’s stringent water management practices ensure that over 95% of its inhabitants have access to high-quality spring water.
4. Norway
Insider Monkey Rating: 4
Norway’s energy generation system is among the world’s best. Powered largely by hydropower, approximately 98% of its electricity comes from renewable sources, according to the International Energy Agency. Renowned for its commitment to electric vehicles, Norway aims for all new passenger cars and vans to be zero-emission by 2025. The impact of this initiative became evident after 2016, as reported by the OECD.
3. Finland
Insider Monkey Rating: 3
Finland is striving to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, and to meet this goal, the nation has significantly invested in wind and solar energy. Forests, covering over 73% of the country, are also sustainably managed to provide ecological benefits. Comprehensive water management strategies, such as groundwater conservation and protecting numerous lakes, exemplify Finland’s commitment to being climate-smart.
2. Sweden
Insider Monkey Rating: 2
Sweden aspires to be entirely powered by renewable energy by 2040, a goal bolstered by its highly decarbonized power system. With renewables, especially wind, and hydropower, currently supplying nearly 60% of Sweden’s energy, the objective seems attainable. The Vision Zero initiative, aimed at reducing road fatalities, further emphasizes a shift to safer, greener modes of transport.
1. Denmark
Insider Monkey Rating: 1
Denmark’s wind turbines symbolize its pioneering role in green energy. As early as 2019, wind energy accounted for 50% of its electricity consumption, a figure that has since risen to around 60%. Committed to reducing greenhouse gases, Denmark has implemented measures like green agricultural practices with a goal of achieving a 70% reduction by 2030.
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