With the increase in global warming and other environmental problems around the world, cleanliness is a necessity if we intend to have a sustainable future for the incoming generations. Having a clean environment doesn’t only make for a beautiful ambiance, it has several environmental benefits like preserving the natural ecosystem, reducing pollution, and preserving public health.
What is the Cleanest City in the World? When it comes to cleanliness, some cities stand out. This is usually because of strict environmental policies, waste management systems, green transport systems, and other practices that can ensure a clean environment. Cities like “Singapore City”, “Calgary, Canada”, and “Tokyo, Japan” are perfect examples of cities that use these strategies to ensure a pristine environment. As a professional with years of experience in the travel industry, I had the opportunity to visit some of these destinations in 2023 and I was blown away.
When you’re done with this blog, you’ll discover the world’s cleanest city. And in addition, we’ll include a list of four other cities in contention for that top spot. We’ll start with the least on our list (pun intended lol). Are you set? Let’s go!
What is the Cleanest City in the World?
5. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, earns its spot as the 5th on our list. This is because of environmental practices such as community-driven environmental campaigns, waste management systems, and efficient public transit featuring extensive subway systems that reduce emissions. In Tokyo, smoking is prohibited in many places including streets and parks. There are specific areas referred to as smoking rooms or smoking zones which are provided in outdoor locations for smokers to indulge themselves.
As a tourist looking to appreciate the pristine environment in Tokyo, you can explore locations like Ueno Park and the renowned Shibuya Crossing. The entirety of Tokyo is clean however, these locations have a way of making you appreciate it more.
4. Calgary, Canada
Calgary comes as number 4 on our list and is indeed one of the cleanest cities in the world. With a focus on strict environmental regulations by the government and the contribution of residents in maintaining clean conditions, Canada exemplifies urban cleanliness. Activities like composting and recycling programs reduce the carbon output in the city. Nose Hill Park, Calgary Zoo, Prince Island Park, and Fish Creek Provincial Park are perfect spots to appreciate the efforts this city’s citizens put into making Calgary clean. Calgary’s dedication to ensuring cleanliness and sustainability makes it a desirable and habitable location for citizens and tourists alike.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland comes up as number 3 on our list, particularly because of its commitment to sustainability. The city gets all of its electricity from geothermal and hydroelectric power, ensuring clean air and water throughout the city. This makes Reykjavik perfectly poised as one of the greenest cities worldwide. Also, there are waste management policies and recycling programs that aid in curbing environmental position and positioning Reykjavik as our third cleanest worldwide.
Pristine locations in Reykjavik that will make you appreciate the efforts put into ensuring cleanliness include the Blue Lagoon where you can have a spa session while witnessing the milky and clear blue waters, and Thingvellir National Park where two continents meet.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital – Copenhagen – takes its place as the 2nd on our list. This is due to its efficient transit system which provides enough room for cyclers to paddle their bikes. This allows for a reduction in the amount of clean transportation, significantly reducing carbon emissions. The average man in Copenhagen would prefer to paddle his bike rather than drive a vehicle. Also, the government provides financial incentives through subsidies and taxes to encourage cycling.
Additionally, there are recycling initiatives that encourage habitants of Copenhagen to donate or swap items they don’t need for something they need. Some exemplary locations you can visit to appreciate the efforts towards a clean environment in Copenhagen include Copenhill. Visit Copenhill and experience how materials such as refuse, animal feces, human feces, and many other raw materials are converted to electricity, biofuel, and heat. This process helps to recycle waste and generate sustainable green energy for the city.
1. Singapore City, Singapore
What is the cleanest city in the world? Here’s your answer – Singapore City. Here, the government has strict policies prohibiting environmental pollution. In Singapore, it is illegal to throw cigarettes on the streets. It is considered offensive by citizens and first time offenders are fined as much as $300 by the government. People who litter with larger items will be required to appear before the court.
Waste management practices, recycling programs, and efficient transit systems also contribute to Singapore’s clean environment. Locations in Singapore City that exemplify their commitment to a clean environment include Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Botanical Gardens, and Sentosa Island. Singapore City’s commitment to cleanliness through strict government policies, efficient transit, recycling programs and initiatives, and waste management earns the city its spot as number one on our list.
Cleanest city in Africa
Kigali, Rwanda, takes the reigns as the cleanest city in Africa. It also happens to be the best country in Africa to move to, if you’re looking to relocate or expand your business. The Rwandan capital – Kigali – practices frequent cleaning of the streets, proper waste management, and initiatives that encourage cleanliness making it the most pristine in Africa. Citizens also actively participate in maintaining this status by getting involved in monthly cleanups. The government has also placed a ban on the use of single-use plastics, stopping the manufacturing, importation, and use of these materials. All of these practices set Kigali, Rwanda as the cleanest city in Africa
Cleanest City in Asia
Singapore ranks top for the cleanest city in the world so it also ranks as top for the cleanest city in Asia. The city’s stringent rules set out against people who litter and its waste management and recycling practices set it out not only in Asia but worldwide as the cleanest city.
In conclusion, Singapore emerges as the cleanest city in the world for reasons you have learned in this blog. Do you have any comments or contributions regarding this topic? I encourage you to leave comments below.
