These countries are dedicated to environmental protection and preservation, striking a healthy balance between economic development and ecological well-being

Japan
Sustainability has been a fundamental part of Japanese society since the ancient Edo period when resources were limited. As a result, the Japanese take excellent care of whatever they own, leading them to become a waste-free society. With roughly ten different categories of recyclables, the recycling system in the country is one of the best in the world. Furthermore, Japan recycles approximately 84 percent of its plastic garbage, one of the highest ratios in the world. In Japanese philosophy, there is no natural or constructed environment; there is only nature. This is a major reason why the Japanese are so good at making the most of limited resources and recycling what they can. The public transportation system is also very efficient that driving is not necessary. Almost everyone, from the janitor to the CEO, takes the train to work. Every year, Japan reduces its carbon emissions by millions of tonnes because of this common practice.

Germany
In terms of industrial sustainability, Germany is one of the top nations. German businesses are dedicated to both social responsibility and lowering carbon emissions. By 2030, the country aims to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50 percent. Germany is regarded as a leader in recycling and waste management, and its success can be attributed to two factors: solid governmental regulations and high levels of recycling awareness among the public. Over 66 percent of Germany’s waste is recycled, and the country has approximately 15,000 waste treatment facilities. The fact that Germany has one of the highest waste recovery rates in the world demonstrates how the circular economy contributes to the country’s sustainable economic production by conserving basic materials and primary energy. The country’s citizens are also concerned about preserving the environment. Their gardens are filled with edible and non-edible plants, and many community projects can be found all over the country ranging from sustainability workshops to forming large green spaces.

Denmark
In addition to being one of the more environmentally-friendly countries, Denmark is also a world leader in the use of wind power. In fact, wind turbines provide approximately half of the country’s total energy supply. Its capital city, Copenhagen, has set a goal to be completely carbon neutral by the year 2025. In Denmark, approximately half of the country’s energy comes from renewable sources, while the country’s emissions from cars and other vehicles have decreased thanks to its people’s increasing interest to cycle instead of drive. Another interesting point is that Denmark has been a country focused on agriculture and fishing for hundreds of years, and the Danish people still feel connected to the land and water surrounding them. This reverence for environment exemplifies why Denmark is a trailblazer in promoting sustainability.

Norway
Norwegian culture is ingrained with a commitment to sustainability. In fact, they have made it a priority to change their eating and purchasing habits in order to better the world. This country of more than five million people has made great progress in raising its standard of living while reducing environmental impact. The nation’s legislature has made a commitment to eliminate all carbon emissions by the year 2030, which is many years earlier than the majority of other countries’ goals. Composting is a component of one of the most effective recycling systems in the world, which can be found in Norway. Because of its typically wet environment, Norway uses hydropower for around 90 percent of its electricity output, a system that functions very well in the country. Since the level of pollution in the ocean continues to rise, Norway is boosting its financial commitment to research into ocean cleaning. Yet another reason why Norway is a green country is due to its eco-friendly transportation. Trains and ferries connect Oslo with major European cities such as Denmark and Stockholm, eliminating the need for air travel, which contributes to global warming, pollution and leaves a huge carbon footprint.

Sweden
In 1995, Sweden became one of the first countries in the world to introduce a carbon tax. An excise tax is levied on carbon-intensive fuels such as oil and natural gas, and has heavily reduced the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. Establishing a carbon tax is a cost-effective strategy towards minimising CO2 emissions. By 2045, Sweden will have cut between 85 percent and 100 percent of its carbon emissions. More than half of the energy usage is produced by renewable sources. Sweden has also cut its emissions through the use of electric buses, smart roads, and urban farming and gardening. Sustainability has also been accomplished by the implementation of food banks, recycling systems, gender equality and housing for vulnerable people. Interestingly, the Swedish university city of Vaxjo, which bills itself as Europe’s greenest city, and received the European Green Leaf Award in 2018 for its dedication to sustainable development, aspires to be fully fossil fuel free by 2030. Vaxjo’s green approach began in the 1970s, when the city decided to restore its contaminated lakes. This happened at the same time during the 1970s oil crisis, which spurred the municipality to explore for a replacement for district heating powered by oil.