21 Most Sustainable Cities in the WorldĬopenhagen is rated as the most eco-friendly city in Europe. To compile this list of the most eco-friendly cities, we have used the Green City Index scores as well as other more recent initiatives that have been launched since the GCI was published. Green Initiatives - Also known as 'environmental governance,' this sector looks at the eco-friendly initiatives in place in each city, and how well the public engages and participates in them to achieve a more sustainable lifestyle.Air Quality - Cities that rank well have little to no air pollution, which can lead to serious health problems for its citizens.Green Space - This section shows how much green open space, and how many parks and pedestrian areas are available in a city.Waste - Cities' waste management methods and recycling programs weigh in to the final score.

Water - Cities are ranked on their water consumption as well as how much wastewater they produce and how the city manages its natural resources.Transport - This section ranks cities according to three factors: use of public transportation car share programs and bicycling rates.Building Standards - How efficient are the dwellings in the city, and how much energy is used to heat and cool them.Renewable Energy Sources - How much of the city's energy consumption comes from renewable sources.Low co2 Emissions - Cities are ranked according to the amount of carbon emissions per capita.This index uses a complex formula that considers a number of factors: The Green City Index is considered the most effective way to identify green cities.

At a local and municipal level, the most eco-friendly cities are ranked according to a similar system, known as the Siemens Green City Index.

21 Most Sustainable Cities in the WorldĪs you may have seen already, the world's most eco-friendly countries are ranked according to the Environmental Performance Index (EPI).

Global worldwide new eco cities