According to me, the country that best implements transformational strategies for a greener community is SWEDEN.The core principle of sustainable development is that members of one generation should act to conserve resources for future generations.
Sweden has been awarded the prestigious status of being the most sustainable country in the world, a ranking it earned for its use of renewable energy sources and low carbon dioxide emissions, as well as social and governance practices such as labor participation, education and institutional framework, according to a report by sustainability investment firm Robecosam.
Mentioned below are some of the areas through which Sweden tops the list of sustainability-
RENEWABLE ENERGY
As all of us are aware, excessive use of fossils not only depletes stores for the future,but at the same time,it also endangers the health of the planet.But here again,Sweden has found out a green solution.With 52% of renewables, largely hydropower and biofuels, in its energy portfolio, Sweden has the highest percentage of renewable energy in the European Union. According to the Swedish Energy Agency?s predictions, that share can be boosted to 55% by 2020.
SUSTAINABLE LIVING
One unique feature of Sweden is its combination of citizen engagement, high ambition levels and international solidarity. As a result, air pollution in Sweden is at 10.2 micrograms per cubic meter, compared with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development average of 20.1.
The eco friendly attitude of citizens has played a very important role.A study by the European Commission found that 40% of Swedes have purchased eco-labeled food and consumer products in one month, higher than the European average.
The market for used clothing has grown in Sweden over the past years. Vintage fashion has become such a huge trend that established chains are competing with small vintage boutiques selling second-hand items.
Swedes are conscientious about recycling beverage containers. Out of the targeted 90%, 88% of all aluminum cans and PET bottles are now in the recycling system,which is a huge figure.
HUMAN-HEATED BUILDINGS
Sweden is the leader of innovation and out of the box thinking when it comes to environmental preservation.
?Passive Houses? are powered through the use of energy from people?s body heat, electrical appliances, and sunlight. Energy-efficient passive houses have been built in a number of communities in Sweden.
CARBON TAX
In 1995, Sweden became one of the first countries in the world to initiate a carbon tax. This excise tax is placed on carbon-intensive fuels such as oil and natural gas, and has heavily cut down Sweden?s dependency on fossil fuels.Instituting a carbon tax is a cost-effective means of lessening CO2 emissions.Implementing carbon tax plays a important role in cutting down carbon emissions,which in turn has a direct influence for the betterment of not only the health of the planet,but people as well.
Source:
Environmental Leader
The Local
8 Comments
thanks for sharing
Posted 07-02-2018 10:29
good report
Posted 07-02-2018 10:28
Thanks for sharing such a detailed report, Harmanjot! It is my first time acknowledging Sweden has implemented carbon tax more than 20 years ago. Have a great day :)
Posted 03-01-2017 15:29
Very informational! Thanks for sharing
Posted 02-01-2017 04:47
Thanks for the brief summary Harmanjot! I'm happy to see some countries are putting effort to move forward and achieve change. Thank you for letting us know :D
Posted 02-01-2017 04:47
Good to know about it...Thanks for sharing
Posted 30-12-2016 23:07
The article about Sweden and its green actions have been on the top for some time. Its great to know that atleast some are corncerned about the future and is a perfect slap on the face for others who instead of protecting environment are still trying to hunt it down.
Posted 29-12-2016 13:11
Thanks for sharing a detailed article on Sweden, really impressive.
Posted 29-12-2016 03:36