The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) by Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy in collaboration with the Center for International Earth Science Information Network of Columbia University, tracks national environmental data on a quantitative basis by measuring proximity to policy targets. It ranks 132 countries on a scale of 22 performance indicators across ten categories. Each indicator has an associated environmental public health or ecosystem sustainability target.
- 1. SWEDEN – Eco-sense and sensibility
A great country to live: from its picturesque cities to coastal provinces, Sweden excels on environmental health. Sweden is a top ranking country when it comes to protecting the environment, having received widespread praise for its efforts to protect its forest cover (82.3% according to EPI) and the pioneering use of sawdust for generating heat. Wind power already meets a high proportion or energy needs, especially in rural areas, whilst plans are under way for the installation of 2,000 new wind turbines over the next few years. In the context of environmental effects, the quality of air is also striking, ranking the country 15th among 132 others. Swedes take the re-use and recycling of waste materials very seriously and every household keeps different collecting bags, faithful to the logic that “nothing is discarded that can be re-used”. Following Australia’s lead, Sweden was the second country in the world to introduce an eco-tourism charter, additionally setting up “Nature’s Best”, Europe’s first eco-label, which assures the quality of some 147 tours run by its 87 eco-certified tour operators around the country. Note that 93% total percentage of citizens of Stockholm who are walking, cycling or taking public transport to work.
- 2. ITALY – Mediterranean miracle
With Italian agriculture and impressive biodiversity developing harmoniously alongside human intervention, namely 52.6% and 94.8% respectively at EPI, Italy scores very high in the Environmental health category, making it one of the best places to live. Having adopted the Environmental Policy of the European Union, these statistics are also available from Italy’s annual Census Report of Carbon Dioxide Emissions that monitors air and water pollution caused by industrial waste and emissions. For example, 900sq. meters of solar panels have been installed on municipal buildings and schools of Rome.
The Italian Alpine forests stretch across almost 38610 sq. miles of land, main Italy one of the most bio-diverse countries of the Mediterranean, with over 5000 endemic plant species, it is clear that protecting the natural ecosystem is a national priority. In fact, Yale University research into climate change variables of 20 developed countries regarding early preparation and future prosperity shows that Italy is in 7th place, right behind Germany and the UK, while France is in first place.
- 3. FRANCE – “Le pays du soleil”
France has been quite impressive in its efforts to conserve the environment through the use of renewable energy, eco fuels and widespread organic farming. Impressive, but not a total surprise, given that the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy is overseeing 25-30 environmental research programs for the coming years. They also include measures for the Environmental Burden of Disease which will keep fixed the 98% of EPI. Solar energy is a top priority for the government, which provides incentives such as reduced taxes for those choosing solar panels to power their homes, whilst the use of alternative materials such as straw bales is also being promoted, particularly in the construction industry. Ecotourism too has developed considerably during the past ten years, with a significant increase in eco-friendly accommodations. Visitors can enjoy meals featuring local products and are encouraged to become acquainted with the culture of the place through activities that help safeguard the character and tradition of the region.
France now counts about 6,000 charging stations for electric vehicles and plans to increase that to 8,000 points by the end of the year. Also, 400 parks and gardens help Paris become first in the green land use.
- 4. COSTA RICA – The jewel in the eco crown
The Latin American country has made great strides in implementing environmentally sound policies to protect its rich natural heritage taking the 8th place in the Climate Change category of EPI. The Costa Rican government recently set the goal of becoming perhaps the only country in the world to be carbon neutral by 2021. Gripped by a “green” fever, public agencies are promoting sustainable development in all sectors, as national parks are expanded and significant efforts are being made to boost eco-tourism. After reeling from the effects of extensive deforestation in previous decades, a wide-ranging reforestation program is being implemented with over 5 million trees already planted in the last 3-5 years! Though small in size, it is estimated that Costa Rica currently accounts for approximately 6% of the world’s biodiversity, with national parks occupying over 25% of the country’s territory. Ecologically-minded visitors are drawn by hotels implementing a policy of balance between the natural environment and local communities that are encouraged to participate in green initiatives. Guests can also experience the interactive INBioparque ecological park, the Hacienda Bary national wildlife refuge and the Zoo Ave, which operates as an animal park that also provides care the rehabilitation for injured creature.
- 5. Norway – Pushing the green boundaries
Apart from advertising its natural beauty, images of fjords and mountains that appear to float in the sea now serve to underline the fact that the country is also the birthplace of a new form of renewable energy which can be harnessed from saltwater. And, as you might expect, the first plant to generate electricity from osmotic energy is located on the shore of a fjord. Being fully aware not only of their country’s natural wealth but also of the threats posed by global warming and climate change on account of its northern part lying close to the melting Arctic, Norwegians have been quick to take measures for the protection of the environment reaching already the 56,3% of EPI’s goals on climate change. Among the first Europeans to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily life, like “green web hosting” (explained at VeryBestSoftware), Norwegians have enthusiastically embraced the concept of environmental conservation in the culture; indeed ecology and education are inextricably linked. At an early age they learn about plants, animals and recycling, whilst being encouraged to sue bicycles and low polluting public transport. With the aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2030, the country is placing emphasis on sustainable development and environmental legislation such as a carbon dioxide tax on hydrocarbon fuels, the revenues from which are used to finance innovative green technologies.
Sparkling Destinations in the World 