eco friendly cities europe

The 7 Most Eco-Friendly Cities In Europe

As the word gets out about climate change and the danger facing our planet, sustainable travel is on the rise. So with this in mind, we’ve rounded up the most eco-friendly cities in Europe.

People still want to see the world, but we want to do it in a way that doesn’t damage it. Not only that, it’s vital to support cities that are putting environmental schemes in place. Here’s the places that are doing their bit for planet earth…

The most eco-friendly cities in EuropeHow do these rankings work?

1. Lisbon, Portugal

The European Green Capital city of 2020, Lisbon has one of the world’s largest electric vehicle charging point networks with 516 such points citywide. The city has amazing green outdoor spaces for people who live there.

Lisbon is also working towards a fully integrated city, employing a holistic approach to urban planning that considers all aspects of the city, including water, mobility, waste, as well as education and employment.

Lisbon things to do

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a good model in terms of urban planning and design. It is also something of a transport pioneer, aiming to become the world’s most practicable city for cyclists. Copenhagen aims to be carbon-neutral by 2025 and involves its citizens in its plans to help the city become one of the most eco-friendly cities in Europe.

Copenhagen things to do

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

The City of Amsterdam places a lot of focus on living healthily. This includes promoting sporting activities and cycling, investing in sustainable initiatives like Green Roofs and recharging stations for electric vehicles.

More and more local homeowners are beginning to install solar panels on roofs and grow their own foods.

4. Stockholm, Sweden

Did you know that 100% of the energy in Stockholm comes from renewable sources? Stockholm’s hotels are world leading when it comes to environmental thinking.  87% of hotel rooms in Stockholm have an environmental certification.

It’s also a safe and easy city to get around. There’s eco-taxis which use less fuel and a community bicycle program that allows renting one of the program’s 1000 bicycles.

eco friendly cities europe

5. Berlin, Germany

With the rise in electric vehicles, Berlin has installed more than 400 charging points across the city. Berlin is also one of the greenest cities in Europe, with more than 2,500 public green spaces, parks and gardens.

eco friendly cities europe

6. Helsinki, Finland

The city places great emphasis on encouraging environmentally-friendly lifestyles. The City of Helsinki’s strategy for 2017-2021 includes the goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2035.

Helsinki and its residents are also aiming to reduce lavish over-consumption. A number of citizen initiative are tackling this problem. Several flea markets and recycling centres in the Helsinki region are downright treasure chests.

eco friendly cities europe

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

By 2040, Reykjavik plans on eliminating their production of greenhouse gas emissions by not only promoting walking and cycling, but also the use of public transport. The city invested millions into the creation of cycling paths and is encouraging electric car use.

Reykjavik things to do

Sarah Clayton-Lea

Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York.

Contact [email protected]

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