While there is no universally agreed upon definition, the idea of sustainability stems around the concept of meeting our needs without jeopardizing the needs of future generations.
The way I see it, sustainability is an ever changing balancing act… Trying to use minimal resources, being smart about what we are consuming and overall just living a very minimalistic life in order to ensure a better tomorrow.
As a whole sustainability can be broken down into three main components; environmental, social and political. Each of these components play an important role in dictating sustainability for future generations.
But enough about sustainability in general, let’s take a look at who is considered some of the most sustainable countries in the world?
It is without question that Sweden is one of the most, if not THE MOST sustainable country in the world.
Even though a lot of this stems back to governance and societal practices, the country has been working on this for a very long time. In fact, back in the 1990’s, Sweden switched to district heating which allowed the country to heat themselves on recycled energy that would have otherwise gone to waste.
Similarly to Sweden, Finland is top of the list for sustainable countries.
When it comes to eco tourism, these guys have got it figured out. The country has over 40 eco hotels and the VR railway in Finland is considered a highly green form of transportation.
Don’t be surprised that Norway is on the list.
This northern European country prides themselves in having a pristine environment. The expression “take only pictures and keep only memories” couldn’t be a more accurate representation of this beautiful country.
Birthplace to the famous Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark has made themselves known on the sustainability front.
By taking a progressive stance on environmental preservation and being the first country in the world to implement and environmental law in 1973 these guys are a role model for any country. Unfortunately they do however leave a lot to be desired on the fishing and whaling front.
Switzerland is home to a busy population of recyclers.
After having lived there myself and needing to pay per kilogram of garbage disposal, it’s no wonder this nation recycles up to 94% of old glass and 81% of plastic containers. You’re doing us proud Switzerland!
Canada eh?
That’s right, be proud ladies and gentlemen, our home and native land proudly sits at #6 on the sustainability list. We may still have a lot of progress to make, but to make it this high on the sustainability list, we must be doing something right.
