After highlighting the most toxic places on Earth, it’s important to note that not everything is all gloom and doom when it comes to our planets environment.

Many metropolitan cities across the globe have implemented new environmental measures to compete with the rapid demands for energy, technological development and population increases.

From solar energy to cycle lanes, wind turbines to eco policies these cities are top of the ranks for the world’s most eco friendly:

Curitiba

Curitiba is one of South America’s greenest tourist destinations with one of the best bus systems in the world; 3 car length buses circulate the city meaning local residents save energy by using public transport.

It doesn’t stop there – the city’s parks don’t require lawnmowers because they are kept tidy by roaming, grass-eating sheep!

Reykjavik

Iceland’s eccentric party capital Reykjavik has many eco friendly options. It harnesses its geothermal activity for much of the cities electricity and power requirements.

While public transport reduces road pollution by encouraging shared transportation, Reykjavik takes it one step further by running hydrogen buses on the city routes. It has even pledged to be fossil fuel-free by 2050!

Portland

The USA is a massive country but that hasn’t stopped Portland’s residents achieving one of the highest rates of recycling and bike commuting rates in the nation.

The city supports and plans projects including use of renewable energy and the advertising of local food production, in order to preserve working farms that encircle the metropolis.

Malmo

Sweden’s 3rd largest city, Malmo is home to the world’s largest wind farm and a multitude of green parks. In the area of Western Harbour 10,000 residents live in a 100% renewable energy with water harvesting, solar power and wind turbines.

Vancouver

In the centre of Vancouver city, a sanctuary has been created for plants and wildlife in the Vancouver Convention Center. The 2.4 hectare roof garden is home to insects, birds and 400,000 indigenous plants and grasses.

The city is also known to be the world’s largest user of hydroelectric power – 90% of the city’s power comes from natural sources.

London

Many would not expect to see one of the busiest cities in the world on a list of eco friendly cities, especially as it is renowned for being a grey city (the often miserable weather doesn’t help…)

However, London’s tube and hybrid bus system transform modes of transport. The hybrid bus uses a standard engine with an electric motor which reduces noise pollution and increases fuel efficiency. Every time a vehicle brakes, energy is wasted but the hybrid bus uses the wasted energy to charge its batteries.

Photo sourced from: eau123go.wordpress.com