Denmark earns the top spot in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI). EPI is a global sustainability ranking by Yale and Columbia Universities. Learn more about Denmark – the cleanest country in the world.
180 countries based on their performance across 40 indicators grouped into 11 categories have been ranked by a biennial index, a collaboration by scholars from the universities of Yale and Columbia, and the World Economic Forum.
The chief goal of the EPI is not to compare the nations themselves, but rather the measures they implement and the effect that these have. As a result, underperforming governments can learn from the good work undertaken by others and bring up the global average. With that in mind, what exactly have this Scandinavian nation of under six million people done to merit their place at the top of the EPI?
The country shines in several areas, boasting exemplary wastewater treatment systems, near-complete coverage of marine protected areas, and commendable efforts in curbing greenhouse gas emissions. These achievements haven’t happened overnight; Denmark has consistently been a leader in environmental protection, demonstrating the power of long-term vision and dedication. Denmark has achieved the impressive feat of slashing its emissions by half in the last 25 years. Indeed, its carbon footprint peaked as far back as 1996; given that many nations are still witnessing year-on-year increases in their CO2 emissions, that’s quite the example for them to follow. Denmark is aiming for a 70% reduction in emissions by 2030 and complete carbon neutrality by 2050. Meanwhile, the city of Copenhagen is bidding to reach that milestone in as little as three years, which would make it the first net-zero capital in the world.
*****************************
Related: Voluntary Climate Labelling in Denmark
*****************************
Building on the Danish tradition for public-private partnerships and recognizing the private sector as a central actor, the Danish government has formed 14 climate partnerships. Each represents different sectors in the Danish economy.
The United Kingdom, Finland, and Malta follow closely behind, each scoring above 75 on the EPI. These countries excel in various areas, showcasing the diversity of approaches to environmental stewardship. Sweden, Luxembourg, and Slovenia are also notable contenders, highlighting the encouraging progress being made on a global scale.
You can study the complete list here.
Norway is ranked no. 20 on the list.
************************************
Related: Denmark’s Climatorium Built to Protect the Asset of Salt Water
************************************
About the EPI
The 2022 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) provides a data-driven summary of the state of sustainability around the world. Using 40 performance indicators across 11 issue categories, the EPI ranks 180 countries on climate change performance, environmental health, and ecosystem vitality. These indicators provide a gauge at a national scale of how close countries are to established environmental policy targets. The EPI offers a scorecard that highlights leaders and laggards in environmental performance and provides practical guidance for countries that aspire to move toward a sustainable future.
Denmark – the Cleanest Country in the World, compiled by Tor Kjolberg