The World’s Cleanest Countries
In spite of nearly universal support for a cleaner globe, it’s mainly the rich nations that enjoy pristine environments, according to the Environmental Performance Index (EPI).
EPI is an index developed by Columbia University’s Center for International Earth Science Information Network and Yale University’s Center for Environmental Law and Policy to highlight the cleanest countries.
Switzerland tops the list with an overall EPI score of 95.5 out of 100, while European countries account for 14 of the top 20 environmental performers.
The U.S., once a leader in environmental protection, has failed to keep pace. “Starting 25 years ago, the United States started to fall behind in relative terms. The U.S. scores a meager 63.5 on the ecosystem vitality scale, vs. an average score of 74.2 for the world’s richest nations. The U.S.’ overall EPI score is 81, putting it in 39th place on the list.
A few developing nations break into the top 10 of the rankings. Costa Rica has a per-capita gross domestic product of $11,600, but ranks fifth overall as it protects its forests and rich biodiversity, both lures for ecotourists.
The Top 5 + the U.S.
- Switzerland (#1)
- Sweden (#2—tie)
- Norway (#2—tie)
- Finland (#4)
- Costa Rica (#5)
- United States (#39)
Source: Forbes
