The world’s most environmentally friendly country and how they do it
In the world’s most sustainable countries, being environmentally friendly is not a policy, but a lifestyle. Let’s dive into how they do it.
Sustainability can look different around the world. In some countries, it’s all about clean energy, while others may focus more on public transport, water systems and education. No two “greenest countries” look the same. Depending on the criteria, such as biodiversity, United Nations (UN) sustainability development goals, or carbon emissions, the rankings of the most sustainable countries may vary.
However, certain countries consistently stay on top of these rankings. Sweden, Denmark and Finland are frequently ranked amongst the world’s most sustainable or green nations. This is not because they are perfect in their environmental policies, but rather, speaks to how sustainability is embedded in the design of their cities, the way citizens move around and in the country’s education. Let’s look into what these countries are doing right.
Sweden
To begin with, Sweden has always been a leader in environmental performance.
According to AZoCleantech, Sweden is consistently ranked among the top 10 countries worldwide for clean air, water quality, and biodiversity protection. By 2045, the country aims to completely replace fossil fuels with renewable energy through ambitious targets. As of now, most of the public buses in Sweden run on renewable fuels. According to the government of Sweden, this goal was achieved eight years ahead of schedule. But Sweden isn’t stopping here. They are also implementing other policies, such as increasing the usage of electric cargo bikes for urban deliveries, investing in sustainable housing, and building urban parks and green infrastructure.
Moreover, their universities also play a key role in their sustainability progress, especially in research. According to the government of Sweden, institutes like the Stockholm Environmental Institute and the Stockholm Resilience Center consistently conduct research on climate adaptation and sustainability development. And the data directly informs policy-makers
The use of the Swedish green model, a strategy that integrates business with sustainability, is another reason why Sweden is leading in sustainability policies. With this strategy and their efforts in various aspects, it is no wonder that they can address challenges like extreme weather conditions, while still being able to foster a bioeconomy that turns waste into resources.
Denmark
Denmark is often ranked as the second most sustainable country. Some impressive policies that we can learn from Denmark include their wastewater treatment. According to the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 100 per cent of household water streams are connected to sewer systems and are treated for reuse. Denmark also has the sustainability goal of going carbon neutral by 2050—and they have been working on it by launching their first carbon-neutral shipping vessel in 2023.
Denmark is also a role model in sustainable living. Since 2007, the city of Samso has been 100 per cent sustainable. While many other cities are striving toward this goal by using wind power, solar power and bioenergy to fuel homes and businesses. Citizens in some cities are also adapted to a green way of life. For example, many have replaced oil burners with modern heating and have invested in better home insulation.
From extensive cycling networks to waste reuse programs, green infrastructure is everywhere in Denmark. The country is dedicated to supporting green innovation and climate-smart agriculture, which aligns strongly with the UN Sustainable Development goals.
Finland
Last but not least, Finland is also leading in sustainability. Thanks to the Finnish government’s all-rounded policies and recycling systems, Finland has made huge progress in sustainability.
According to rated power, Finland has launched a national hydrogen roadmap, which aims to produce 10 per cent of the EU’s green hydrogen by 2030. The nation is also investing four billion to meet growing energy demands. Financial aid and tax breaks have also been implemented for solar energy installations, which help with more affordable and greener electricity.
Other than that, Finland has heavily invested in onshore and offshore wind power, solar powers, and hydrogen projects. Institutes are also introducing sustainability education into their educational programs to perfect their green economy. The value of respect for nature is also instilled in the Finnish people, most of whom are living sustainable lifestyles by taking part in proper recycling, using public transport and contributing to the technology of creating a greener society, according to Forbes.
With Finland’s dedication to creating a more environmentally friendly society, it has achieved the lowest non-household electricity prices in the European Union.
These three countries are great examples of how sustainability can be implemented in the government, policies, education and the everyday lives of citizens. They have shown that saving our planet is possible. And with effort, we can all work towards a sustainable future, starting on an individual level by recycling and getting informed.
