It is estimated that in the fairly near future approximately 70% of the population will live in large cities. In order to house such a large number of people, they will have to become sustainable cities. If you feel like practicing a more responsible tourism, we will tell you which are these destinations that are most involved with the environment.
The most sustainable cities of the moment
To talk about sustainable cities, a series of requirements established as reference indicators must be met. These refer to three pillars: the social aspect, the environmental and the economic.
Specifically, what is observed in them are values such as life expectancy, the obesity rate, crime, the cost of living, pollution and recycling, mobility, the employment rate, GDP or tourism , among many others.
After studying all of them throughout the world, here are the ones that are currently considered sustainable destinations. If you consider moving to any of them in the future, it is a good time to pay a visit.
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich tops the list of sustainable cities today. However, although it has the first position in the environmental aspect, in the social aspect it falls to twenty-seventh position. There the concept of “2,000 watts per capita society” was born, and it has become a goal for the year 2050. Also, its transportation can boast of being very efficient.
From the point of view of sustainable destinations to visit as tourists, Zurich has a lot to walk. Its historic center stands out, although it is less attractive than that of other cities in the country, Lake Zurich with views of the Alps and the infinity of monuments in its streets.
Singapore
Second in the ranking of sustainable cities is Singapore. In addition, it ranks second in cities with the largest number of trees. It achieves its position thanks to its economic leadership, superior to that of other sustainable destinations such as Hong Kong or London.
It offers high connectivity, as well as an efficient transport network and high job creation. Thanks to its income, it has the opportunity to reinvent itself to continue being sustainable without neglecting any relevant aspect. This city-state, a former British colony, has an Indian, Arab quarter, where the Sultan Mosque is located, and a Chinese quarter. The Gardens by the Bay park is a mandatory stop.
Stockholm has also achieved one of the first positions of sustainable cities thanks to the renovation of its industrial district, which today is an ecological zone with closed energy, water and waste circuits. Sustainable infrastructures, clean air and low emissions are a successful combination, reflecting that economic development is possible without harming the environment.
In addition to being a well-kept city, Stockholm exudes great beauty, and its historic part, which has become a modern area, is worth a visit. After getting to know its Royal Palace and its narrow streets, we cannot forget the Saluhall market in the glamorous Ostermalm neighborhood, a source of inspiration for many other markets in the world.
Vienna, Austria
What has made Vienna another of the sustainable cities in the world is its safety, the operation of public transport and the low price of housing, as well as its Smart City Vienna project, which seeks energy self-sufficiency and zero emissions for the 2050.
If we visit this jewel of Central Europe, we will be able to enjoy the superb beauty of its different palaces and public buildings, which contrast with the colorful and peculiar appearance of the Hundertwasserhaus, a residential complex created in the early 80s.
London, United Kingdom
London needs no introduction as a tourist destination. But despite the number of visits it receives daily, its economic opportunities or its environmental programs have also given it the consideration of one of the main sustainable cities in the world. However, the social aspect, specifically access to housing and mobility are pending issues.
When it comes to what we can visit, London is preceded by its popularity. Big Ben, Chinatown, streets like Oxford Circus or Regent Street, the modern neighborhood of Shoreditch or Westminster Abbey are just a few examples of what this cosmopolitan city has to offer.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam cannot be missing among sustainable destinations and stands out mainly in the social aspect. In 2016 it was Capital of Innovation and it invests in improving the quality of life of those who live there and in reducing their emissions. Popular for the use of bicycles and for its cafeterias, it is another of the most charming sustainable cities.
