Visiting an Eco friendly destination may be one of the best holidays you experience, its different and fulfilling in many ways. Contrary to the popular belief, these holidays are not any less fun. In this guide, we will explore the top green countries and most Eco friendly travel destinations in the world.
Germany
In what may be considered a surprise, Germany picked up the greenest country award several years back. Germany was an industrial powerhouse; however, recent changes to government policies and large corporation’s company changes have changed the way they operate. Germany cut its use of oil, gas and coal by an astonishing 6% while other countries continued to rise (America went up 2.4%). With the help of the German chancellor substantial efforts are being made to cut emissions by 40% by 2020.
United Kingdom
There are Thousands of environmentally friendly companies contributing to its majestic beauty and clean air. The UK has rich history and grand medieval architecture making the country a great green holiday destination.
Switzerland
Currently, second in the EPI list (Environmental Performance Index), Switzerland has always been known as a green country. Astonishingly, just 5% of all the energy generated in Switzerland comes from “conventional” power sources. 56% comes from water and 39% comes from nuclear power. Switzerland has a wonderful rail network and carries each citizen in the country roughly 1,100 miles per annum (more than any other country). Switzerland also has one of the highest rates of recycling. It is believed that up to 80% of all materials that can be recycled are.
Iceland
Source – Familjen
Current “leaders” of the EPI ratings are Iceland, a country which is making headway in the way it operates. In 2008, Iceland found itself 11 in the ‘rankings’, and now it sits top of the leader board by quite away. Like Switzerland, Iceland uses both Geothermal and Hydro power; in fact, just 20% of the power generated in Iceland is from non renewable sources. Iceland expects to be energy-independent by 2050, which many believe a conservative figure, and something which Iceland believes it can reach at least a decade before. Unlike almost every other country, Iceland has never produced a drop of oil or gas, and is now selling licenses to major businesses that want to use their space to develop hydro power stations.
Mauritius
Source – Mauritius
Mauritius is the only African country that made it into the top 30 EPI, coming in at number 6. The Republic of Mauritius is constituted of the main island of Mauritius and several outlying islands, it is a major fishing base and is making unbelievable headway. Just two years ago it did not even feature in the top 30 EPI countries. The island is becoming more carbon friendly and is making steps to ensure that all its major businesses are following in their footsteps.
As you can see from this list, it is mostly dominated by Scandinavian countries. Hopefully, it will not be long before all other countries follow in their footsteps and start reducing their carbon footprint. When this happens, we can travel anywhere knowing that the country is doing everything in its power to ensure our stay is as economically friendly as possible. For now, enjoy the outdoors and the greenness that these countries have to offer.
Content was originally submitted by contributor “kristian1111”
