Cleanest Countries In The World

In the face of mounting environmental concerns like deforestation, pollution, and climate change, it becomes impactful to evaluate how nations around the world are upholding their environmental responsibilities. Enter the Environmental Performance Index (EPI), a method used to quantify and numerically mark the environmental performance of a nation's policies. This composite index focuses on two broad policy areas: environmental health and ecosystem vitality.

Although there is a long way to go in realizing a completely sustainable world, some nations have made noteworthy strides towards enhancing their environmental footprint. These countries, many of which are in Europe, have taken considerable steps to minimize pollution, prioritize sustainability, and forge a path to a greener, healthier world. 

Key findings from the data include:

• Denmark currently leads the global position in environmental performance, with a score of 77.9, making it the cleanest country in the world.
• Notably, eight out of the top ten "cleanest" countries according to the Environmental Performance Index are in Europe. These countries have invested significantly in renewable energy infrastructure, waste management, and environmental policy.
• Despite being one of the world's largest economies, the United States ranks much lower on the EPI, with a score of 51.1, which indicates considerable room for improvement.
• Interestingly, many smaller nations step forward in this context. For instance, Malta and Slovenia are within the top 10 on the EPI, underscoring that smaller economies can also have a significant positive impact on the environment.
• Sadly, countries like India, Myanmar, and Vietnam are at the bottom of the list, indicating severe environmental challenges that these countries need to address.

These figures emphasize that attaining a balance between development and environment requires concerted efforts. Notably, it's the Nordic countries, with a balanced blend of robust policy protections, strong societies, and commitment to environmental sustainability that set the pace for the rest of the world towards preserving our planet.

When it comes to measuring cleanliness through the Environmental Performance Index, several nations are setting commendable benchmarks. The top performers in this regard include Denmark, Malta, Luxembourg, United Kingdom, Finland, Switzerland, Sweden, Austria, Iceland, and Norway. Denmark excels with an outstanding Environmental Performance Index (EPI) of 77.9, closely followed by Malta at 75.2.

Luxembourg and the United Kingdom have also made significant strides, achieving EPI scores of 72.3 and 77.7 respectively. Finland’s dedication to environmental cleanliness is evident in its EPI of 76.5. Switzerland and Sweden both achieve high marks in this area, each with an EPI of 72.7. Austria and Iceland are notable for their commitment to environmental cleanliness, reflected in scores of 66.5 and 62.8. Completing this list is Norway, which demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability with an EPI of 59.3.

Top 10 Cleanest Countries (Environmental Performance Index):

1. Denmark - 77.9
2. Malta - 75.2
3. Luxembourg - 72.3
4. United Kingdom - 77.7
5. Finland - 76.5
6. Switzerland - 72.7
7. Sweden - 72.7
8. Austria - 66.5
9. Iceland - 62.8
10. Norway - 59.3

​

To sort the data in the table, click on the column headers.

Year: 2022

Source: Environmental Performance Index - Yale University

​