In today’s highly urbanized and industrialized society, pollution has become a major issue for many cities around the world. But even though there is much pressure put on the environment nowadays, some cities are more able to handle their levels of pollution than others.
Following, we would like to present you with a list we have compiled of the top 7 cleanest cities in the world, ranked according to the latest statistics issued by Mercer. Curious to see where local officials keep their pollution levels in check? Let’s take a look at the countdown.
No. 7: Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington’s biggest asset is its natural beauty, with unspoiled green spaces, coasts, and mountains. The local officials have done a great job of preserving this small capital’s charm, by implementing sanitation programs all throughout the city. In addition, Wellington has also proven to be a top performer when it comes to quality of air, energy consumption, and waste management.
No. 6: Copenhagen, Denmark
Earlier this year, Copenhagen received the title of Europe’s Green Capital, thanks to the efforts of both local government and residents to maintain the city’s environment. In addition, Copenhagen is not only a clean city, but also a beautiful sight, with breathtaking sceneries and out-of-this-world castles.
No. 5: Kobe, Japan
Despite being a major urban centre in Japan, Kobe isn’t unlike other metropolises around the world that face serious pollution issues. Local Kobe officials work hard at maintaining the city’s level of cleanliness, through waste disposal management and sanitation programs.
No. 4: Minneapolis, USA
Minneapolis is the only US city to make it on Mercer’s top ten. Local officials have found a great way to protect the local environment, by using the taxes obtained through trading activity on the Mississippi river for green purposes.
No. 3: Honolulu, Hawaii
Apart from being a major touristic destination, Honolulu also ranks as one of the cleanest cities to be living in. The laidback island atmosphere, the greenery, flower, and trees only enhance the beauty of Honolulu.
No. 2: Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide is the one of the biggest environmental sustainable cities in Australia and local officials are working hard at maintaining its status as one of the cleanest areas in the world. Its wide parkland and green areas add a lot of charm and fresh oxygen to this already picturesque city. One of the most important activity officials have implemented in the area is represented by Adelaide’s recycling system, which recycles approximately 85% of all wastes.
No. 1: Calgary, Canada
For the fifth year in a row, Calgary ranks as the cleanest city in the world in the report released by Mercer. Even though much of Calgary’s economy is based on industry and manufacturing, the local officials have always keep their eye on the city’s level of pollution. But Calgary isn’t just a clean city, it is also a rather beautiful one, with two rivers flowing along huge green parks, filled with trees and flowers.
