RobecoSAM, a Swiss investment group, ranks Sweden as the most sustainable country in the world. The report concluded from a trifold analysis of social, environmental, and governance systems, the highest ranking countries for sustainability. 59 countries were measured, and the U.S. ranked 9th. Second place was awarded to Australia, and several other Scandinavian countries ranked in the top ten.

Why is this? Sweden’s strengths in their implementation of renewable energy the past few years and reduced carbon dioxide emissions helped earn the high ranking. Also, Sweden holds strong social and governance systems such as highly rated labor participation and education systems. RobecoSAM conducted this report based on their interest in making future investments with each country, enabling investors to compare countries’ setbacks and opportunities for sustainability.

Countries were measured on environmental factors like emissions, energy sources, and risk mitigation, while social and governing aspects such as education, democratic participation, government stability, and business regulation were calculated as well. These calculations were done for each of the 59 countries and then compiled into a “Top 50 Sustainable Countries” report. Investors factor in a country’s long-term energy plan and ability to address climate change into their calculated decisions.

How can we rise up the sustainability list and project a healthy economy and environment for our future? The answer may be as simple as “following the leader”. The U.S., and all other countries, can use Sweden as a role model. For example, Volvo released a plug-in hybrid bus this year in a field test in Sweden. This would allow for a two-fold benefit, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 75 to 80 percent and reducing energy use by 60 percent.

Posted by Solar Lover – Brittany on 10/14/2013