Table of Contents
Maintaining good environmental hygiene should be a top priority around the world. As a sign of concern for climate change, many countries are trying to create comfortable and sustainable cities and villages.
Among the many countries that pay special attention to environmental policies and efficient urban infrastructure innovation, some are among the cleanest in the world.
So, what is the cleanest country in the world? Let’s take a look at the full explanation in the following article!
List of the Cleanest Countries in the World
Before getting into the list of the cleanest countries in the world, you need to understand how this cleanliness assessment is carried out, including its reference.
The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) of 2024 compiled by Yale and Columbia University is one of the main references for the cleanliness assessment of countries around the world.
The EPI has assessed 180 countries using 58 indicators across 11 categories, including air quality, water quality, sanitation, waste management, and climate change policies.
Based on the EPI data, we can see which countries consistently maintain a clean and beautiful environment. Here are the top 10 cleanest countries in the world:
1. Estonia
Based on the Environmental Performance Index (EPI), Estonia was named the cleanest country in the world with a score of 75.7. This country excels in several environmental aspects, including air quality, waste management, and renewable energy.
Estonia is also known for its digitalization policies that support sustainability, such as e-governance and smart cities. These digital systems provide efficient monitoring of air quality and waste management, enabling citizens to participate more actively.
2. Luxembourg
In second place is Luxembourg. This country achieved an EPI score of 75.1, with the highest score in clean water and sanitation management.
Additionally, Luxembourg is committed to enforcing green policies and has environmentally friendly infrastructure that supports the quality of life of its citizens.
Read also: What Is Bioremediation? Learn Its Types and How It Works
3. Germany
Germany successfully achieved an EPI score of 74.6 with its flagship Energiewende program, which focuses on clean and renewable energy.
Germany also implements a highly efficient and strict waste recycling system, from households to industries. Furthermore, the cities in Germany implement progressive environmental regulations, making the streets tidy and the air clean.
4. Finland
Finland is known for its vast green landscapes and super clean air. This country excels in forest management, water quality perseverance, and sound sanitation systems. It is no surprise that this small country scored 73.8 on the EPI and ranks fourth as the cleanest country in the world.
5. United Kingdom
Who would have thought that the United Kingdom, known for its dense population, would be listed as one of the cleanest countries in the world? England managed to score 72.6 on the EPI because of its commitment to maintaining the quality of the sea and air, along with efficient waste management.
In addition, big cities in England, such as London, have also started using electric buses as transportation to reduce air pollution. Furthermore, there are also many public green spaces that citizens can freely visit to gather safely and enjoy nature.
6. Sweden
Sweden is known as a “green country” for a reason. The country utilizes renewable energy, implements efficient waste management, and has extensive green open spaces, making its cities feel comfortable.
Sweden also has a strong environmental education program, enabling its people, from children to adults, to get used to an earth-friendly lifestyle. This step has led Sweden to achieve an EPI score of 70.3, showcasing Sweden’s consistency in maintaining environmental sustainability.
7. Norway
Norway is known as a natural paradise, from its stunning fjords to its vast mountains. Everything is strictly regulated to preserve the environment.
Based on the EPI assessment, Norway scored 69.9. This shows the country’s success in managing waste and ensuring that the quality of its air and water is well maintained.
Interestingly, Norway’s waste recycling process is among the best in the world. Even small villages have complete waste sorting facilities.
Read also: 13 Types of Aesthetic Indoor Air-Purifying Plants
8. Austria
Austria is a beautiful country in Europe and is also one of the cleanest countries in the world. This country is filled with green areas, high-quality drinking water facilities, and has strict standards for air pollution and waste management.
The Austrian people are also accustomed to waste sorting, both at the household and public levels. Based on the 2024 EPI, Austria scored 68.9, making it the eighth cleanest country in the world.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland is known for its tidiness and cleanliness, from its big cities to its small villages. Efficient public transportation and a disciplined waste management system maintain a high quality of life for its citizens.
In addition, well-maintained parks and green spaces make Swiss cities comfortable to live in and explore. No wonder this country scored 67.8 on the EPI and ranks as the ninth cleanest country.
10. Denmark
Denmark closes the list of the 10 cleanest countries in the world with a score of 67.7 in the 2024 EPI study, ranking tenth overall. This country focuses its conservation efforts on renewable energy, environmentally friendly transportation, and a minimal waste lifestyle.
Denmark scored high in wastewater management, sanitation, protected marine areas, and heavy metal control. This Nordic country also implements the strictest standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prevent climate change.
That concludes the information on the list of the cleanest countries in the world. Although environmental conservation in a country is primarily the government’s responsibility, citizens can also take part in making changes.
To participate in the green movement, you can join Indonesia Asri. As a Warga Asri, you will gain hands-on experience in various activities that have a positive impact on the earth.
At Indonesia Asri, you can participate in exciting and beneficial programs like #AksiAsri, where you will be encouraged to adopt an environmentally friendly and sustainable lifestyle.
So, register now and become a Warga Asri that participates in realizing a healthier and more sustainable environment for everyone!
Read also: Slow Living: A Solution to a Calm and Meaningful Life
