The efforts in environmental protection and pollution reduction plans have helped these major cities maintain clean air.
Apart from famous landmarks, scenic spots, and bustling entertainment areas, increasingly more travelers are choosing eco-friendly cities that are close to nature. If you share this preference, here are 7 of the cleanest cities in the world that you can visit to “green” your life.
The Cleanest Cities in the World
1. Stockholm (Sweden)
Photo: Telegraph.
Stockholm was the first city recognized as the European Green Capital in 2010. Since receiving this award, the capital of Sweden has continued to develop green projects and initiatives, successfully reducing carbon emissions by 25% compared to the 1990s. The city plans to improve public transportation, reduce waste, and enhance biodiversity. Stockholm is also known as an ideal city for cycling.
2. Oslo (Norway)
Photo: Departures Magazine.
Oslo is one of the greenest cities in the world. It was chosen as the Green Capital in 2019 based on criteria including: reducing CO2 emissions, air quality, water sources, energy use, green development, biodiversity, and transportation. The city government is very strict about creating green living spaces to protect the environment and improve the air quality and quality of life for its residents.
Oslo has even become a role model for the world by setting a goal to reduce CO2 emissions by 95% by 2030, aiming for zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
3. Wellington (New Zealand)
Photo: Telegraph.
New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes and clean air. In the capital city of Wellington, alongside a low population and plenty of sea breezes, energy-saving programs and waste management projects aim to minimize CO2 emissions, making the city clean and pollution-free. Additionally, the residents here are very conscious of environmental protection. Notably, the city has many green spaces in the surrounding areas and western corridors.
4. Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Photo: Getty Images.
Amsterdam is famous for being one of the greenest cities in Europe. In this city, nature and urban development can harmoniously coexist. Tall buildings are interspersed with the development of green spaces throughout the city. Additionally, numerous parks are designed near the canals, creating a fresh and airy environment.
5. Helsinki (Finland)
Photo: Dansk Komponistforening
Helsinki is one of the greenest and least polluted cities in the world. The city is building a high-quality public transportation system with the goal of reducing the use of personal vehicles by 2025. Helsinki encourages its residents to use bicycles for commuting. Currently, the city has over 3,900 km of cycling paths, receiving strong support from the community.
6. Canberra (Australia)
Photo: Reddit
Canberra is a city with nearly 400,000 residents. With a nursery covering 250 hectares and around 44,000 trees, this city is known as the Green Capital of Australia. Canberra is one of the few places that uses 100% renewable energy for electricity production, alongside cities in Austria, Germany, and Spain.
7. Montevideo (Uruguay)
Photo: Getty Images.
Montevideo is famous for its sandy beaches, colonial architecture, and vineyards. With its fresh air, Montevideo is considered one of the most comfortable capitals in South America.
