Top 10 Greenest Countries in the World: Who's Leading the Way, and Where Does India Stand?
Share this article:
As climate change intensifies and pollution levels rise globally, several countries are proving that a cleaner, greener world is still possible. The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2024 has revealed the top-performing nations prioritising clean air, renewable energy, and sustainable living . From lush forests to innovative green policies, these countries are leading by example - while India’s ranking highlights the pressing need for urgent environmental action.
The World's Greenest Nations : A Snapshot of Sustainability
1. Estonia – EPI Score: 75.3
Estonia tops the global list with its deep forests, unpolluted air, and firm commitment to eco-friendly living. Nearly half the country is covered in greenery, and citizens follow strict environmental norms backed by supportive government policies on renewable energy and waste management.
2. Luxembourg – EPI Score: 75
Small in size but big on sustainability, Luxembourg boasts spotless streets, vast parks, and an excellent public transport network. With a strong focus on cycling, reduced carbon emissions, and clean urban spaces, the country earns its green badge with pride.
3. Germany – EPI Score: 74.6
Germany combines industrial growth with a deep respect for nature. The country thrives on solar and wind energy, enforces rigorous recycling rules, and ensures its cities remain clean and green with widespread public support.
4. Finland – EPI Score: 73.7
Known for its lakes and expansive forests, Finland encourages eco-conscious living with advanced green technologies and renewable energy use. Low air pollution levels and a love for outdoor life make it a true haven for nature enthusiasts.
5. United Kingdom – EPI Score: 72.7
From London’s urban greenery to the countryside’s rolling hills, the UK is becoming increasingly climate-aware. With a push towards electric vehicles, robust recycling initiatives, and active tree-planting efforts, sustainability is becoming a way of life.
6. Sweden – EPI Score: 70.5
Sustainability is woven into Sweden’s lifestyle. Clean cities, pristine rivers, and a strong reliance on green energy are everyday norms. Citizens prefer cycling and walking, making a clear statement in favour of eco-friendly living.
7. Norway – EPI Score: 70
Blessed with dramatic fjords and thick forests, Norway invests heavily in clean energy and electric transport. Simple living, close to nature, is a cultural cornerstone that supports the country’s excellent environmental performance.
8. Austria – EPI Score: 69
Austria balances urban life with natural beauty. With a love for outdoor adventures, the population supports biking and solar-powered living. The country’s clean cities and renewable energy usage make it a consistent green performer.
9. Switzerland – EPI Score: 68
Switzerland’s picture-perfect lakes and mountains are matched by its citizens’ environmental discipline. From strict recycling to green transport investments, the country is deeply committed to preserving its pristine surroundings.
10. Denmark – EPI Score: 67.9
Home to one of the world’s most bike-friendly capitals, Denmark champions wind energy and green urban design. Sustainability is ingrained in both policy and public behaviour, making it a model for others to follow.
Where Does India Stand?
India ranks 176th out of 180 countries on the 2024 EPI, with a score of 27.6 out of 100. The country faces significant environmental challenges, including severe air pollution, reliance on coal, and a decline in biodiversity.
Despite these figures, India is gradually taking steps toward improvement. Initiatives like increased afforestation, the push for electric vehicles, and investments in solar energy signal a slow but hopeful shift toward sustainability. However, stronger action and public participation are crucial for real impact.
While countries like Estonia and Luxembourg shine as environmental role models, India’s low ranking serves as a wake-up call. With the right mix of policies, innovation, and public awareness, a greener India is still within reach. The global green race is on - will India pick up the pace?
The World's Greenest Nations : A Snapshot of Sustainability
1. Estonia – EPI Score: 75.3
Estonia tops the global list with its deep forests, unpolluted air, and firm commitment to eco-friendly living. Nearly half the country is covered in greenery, and citizens follow strict environmental norms backed by supportive government policies on renewable energy and waste management. 2. Luxembourg – EPI Score: 75
Small in size but big on sustainability, Luxembourg boasts spotless streets, vast parks, and an excellent public transport network. With a strong focus on cycling, reduced carbon emissions, and clean urban spaces, the country earns its green badge with pride.3. Germany – EPI Score: 74.6
Germany combines industrial growth with a deep respect for nature. The country thrives on solar and wind energy, enforces rigorous recycling rules, and ensures its cities remain clean and green with widespread public support. 4. Finland – EPI Score: 73.7
Known for its lakes and expansive forests, Finland encourages eco-conscious living with advanced green technologies and renewable energy use. Low air pollution levels and a love for outdoor life make it a true haven for nature enthusiasts.5. United Kingdom – EPI Score: 72.7
From London’s urban greenery to the countryside’s rolling hills, the UK is becoming increasingly climate-aware. With a push towards electric vehicles, robust recycling initiatives, and active tree-planting efforts, sustainability is becoming a way of life. 6. Sweden – EPI Score: 70.5
Sustainability is woven into Sweden’s lifestyle. Clean cities, pristine rivers, and a strong reliance on green energy are everyday norms. Citizens prefer cycling and walking, making a clear statement in favour of eco-friendly living. 7. Norway – EPI Score: 70
Blessed with dramatic fjords and thick forests, Norway invests heavily in clean energy and electric transport. Simple living, close to nature, is a cultural cornerstone that supports the country’s excellent environmental performance. 8. Austria – EPI Score: 69
Austria balances urban life with natural beauty. With a love for outdoor adventures, the population supports biking and solar-powered living. The country’s clean cities and renewable energy usage make it a consistent green performer.9. Switzerland – EPI Score: 68
Switzerland’s picture-perfect lakes and mountains are matched by its citizens’ environmental discipline. From strict recycling to green transport investments, the country is deeply committed to preserving its pristine surroundings. 10. Denmark – EPI Score: 67.9
Home to one of the world’s most bike-friendly capitals, Denmark champions wind energy and green urban design. Sustainability is ingrained in both policy and public behaviour, making it a model for others to follow. Where Does India Stand?
India ranks 176th out of 180 countries on the 2024 EPI, with a score of 27.6 out of 100. The country faces significant environmental challenges, including severe air pollution, reliance on coal, and a decline in biodiversity. - Air Quality Rank: 177th
- Biodiversity & Habitat Rank: 178th
Despite these figures, India is gradually taking steps toward improvement. Initiatives like increased afforestation, the push for electric vehicles, and investments in solar energy signal a slow but hopeful shift toward sustainability. However, stronger action and public participation are crucial for real impact.
While countries like Estonia and Luxembourg shine as environmental role models, India’s low ranking serves as a wake-up call. With the right mix of policies, innovation, and public awareness, a greener India is still within reach. The global green race is on - will India pick up the pace?
Next Story