Top 10 Cleanest Cities in the World
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From eco-friendly hubs like Copenhagen and Zurich to sustainability pioneers like Singapore and Stockholm, these cities lead the way in urban cleanliness. Discover the top 10 cleanest cities in the world and how they are setting new standards for sustainability in 2025.
Cleanliness in urban environments is an indicator of strong governance, efficient waste management, and public participation in sustainability efforts. Cities that prioritise environmental policies, effective public transport, and waste reduction strategies tend to maintain high air and water quality, benefiting both residents and ecosystems.
Globally, urban areas generate over 2.01 billion tonnes of solid waste annually, according to the World Bank, with high-income cities producing more than 34% of this total. Proper waste disposal, recycling programmes, and emissions control play a crucial role in ensuring urban cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 99% of the global population breathes air exceeding safe pollution levels, making it essential for cities to implement measures that improve air quality and reduce emissions.
Among the cleanest cities, common strategies include high waste recycling rates—such as 99% in Stockholm—and investments in sustainable transport, as seen in Copenhagen, where bicycles outnumber cars, with residents cycling 1.44 million kilometres daily.
Zurich’s well-structured waste management system achieves a 91% recycling rate for glass, while Singapore enforces strict anti-littering laws, maintaining a high level of public cleanliness.
The following list highlights ten of the cleanest cities in the world, based on their environmental policies, waste management efficiency, and commitment to sustainable urban living.
10 cleanest cities in the world
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen consistently ranks as one of the world's cleanest cities, underpinned by its ambitious environmental policies and innovative urban planning. The Danish capital has set a goal to become carbon-neutral by 2025, a commitment that has driven significant reductions in CO₂ emissions—75% since 2005. This achievement is notable, especially considering the city's population growth of 25% over the same period.
A standout feature of Copenhagen's sustainability efforts is the CopenHill facility, a waste-to-energy plant with a public ski slope on its roof. This innovative project not only contributes to waste management and energy production but also serves as a recreational space, symbolising the city's integrated approach to urban design and environmental responsibility.
Cycling infrastructure is another cornerstone of Copenhagen's clean city status. The city boasts more bicycles than cars, with residents collectively cycling approximately 1.44 million kilometres daily. This extensive use of bicycles significantly reduces traffic congestion and air pollution, contributing to the city's overall cleanliness and high quality of life.
In 2024, Copenhagen launched the CopenPay initiative, a pilot programme designed to encourage both tourists and locals to engage in climate-friendly activities. Participants were rewarded with perks such as free meals or extended access to attractions in exchange for actions like cycling or volunteering in urban gardens. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to promoting sustainable practices among all who live in or visit Copenhagen.
2. Singapore
Singapore is renowned for its stringent cleanliness standards and comprehensive environmental policies. The city-state enforces strict anti-littering laws, with fines imposed for offences such as spitting in public places. Heavy taxes on car ownership have been implemented to reduce vehicle numbers, encouraging the use of public transportation. Over the past five decades, Singapore has launched multiple campaigns to enhance cleanliness, including the annual Tree Planting Day and river clean-up initiatives. These efforts have transformed Singapore into one of Asia's cleanest urban environments.
In 2024, Singapore designated the year as the "Year of Public Hygiene," implementing targeted measures to improve cleanliness across the island. Initiatives included publicising photos of litterbugs and enhancing cleaning protocols in public areas, reflecting the government's proactive approach to maintaining high hygiene standards.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) plays a pivotal role in sustaining Singapore's cleanliness. Established in 2002, the NEA oversees public health, environmental protection, and meteorological services. Its efforts encompass comprehensive waste management, stringent pollution control, and public education campaigns aimed at fostering a culture of cleanliness among residents.
Public satisfaction with cleanliness in Singapore remains high. A 2023 survey indicated that 94% of respondents were satisfied with the cleanliness of public spaces they had recently visited, a 2% increase from the previous year. This positive perception underscores the effectiveness of Singapore's ongoing efforts to maintain its status as one of the world's cleanest cities.
3. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki's commitment to environmental sustainability and urban cleanliness is evident through its innovative initiatives and community engagement. The city has developed an energy-efficient district heating system, which serves approximately 90% of Helsinki's heating needs. This system utilises combined heat and power (CHP) plants, significantly reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Cycling is a popular mode of transport in Helsinki, supported by an extensive network of cycling paths spanning over 1,200 kilometres. The city's investment in cycling infrastructure encourages residents to choose bicycles over cars, reducing traffic congestion and contributing to cleaner air quality.
Helsinki has set an ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. The city's strategy includes increasing the use of renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, and promoting sustainable transportation options. These efforts reflect Helsinki's dedication to creating a clean and sustainable urban environment for its residents.
4. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is celebrated for its cleanliness and environmental consciousness, underpinned by comprehensive waste management systems and sustainable urban planning. The city achieves high recycling rates, with approximately 99% of household waste being recycled or used for energy recovery, minimising landfill usage.
Public transportation in Stockholm is highly developed, with an extensive network of buses, trains, and trams powered increasingly by renewable energy sources. The city also promotes cycling, offering numerous bike lanes and rental services to reduce reliance on private vehicles, thereby decreasing air pollution and enhancing urban cleanliness.
Stockholm's commitment to green spaces is evident in its numerous parks and nature reserves, which cover about 40% of the city's area. This abundance of green areas not only enhances the city's aesthetic appeal but also contributes to air purification and provides residents with accessible recreational spaces, promoting a high quality of life.
5. Calgary, Canada
Calgary, located in Alberta, is recognised for its strong environmental policies and commitment to sustainability. The city enforces strict waste management laws, with fines for littering, including a £135 penalty for discarding cigarette butts. Alberta's "Too Good to Waste" initiative, launched in 2007, aims to reduce landfill waste by encouraging recycling and composting.
Calgary has set an ambitious target to reduce landfill waste by 70% by 2025. The city diverts over 55% of its waste from landfills through recycling and composting programmes. The environmental charity Green Calgary promotes sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting and waste reduction. Calgary’s air quality index (AQI) remains low, averaging 30-40 annually, well within World Health Organisation (WHO) standards.
6. Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington benefits from its coastal location and consistent wind patterns, which help maintain clean air. The city has an extensive kerbside recycling system, with over 85% of households participating. Wellington's waste minimisation strategy aims to reduce per capita landfill waste to 600 kg per person per year by 2026.
Public transport plays a key role in Wellington’s environmental policies. 30% of commuters use buses or trains daily, reducing carbon emissions. The city's air quality index averages below 20, one of the lowest among capital cities. Wellington maintains over 4,000 hectares of green space, including Zealandia, a wildlife sanctuary that protects native species.
7. Oslo, Norway
Oslo has implemented sustainable waste management policies, including a waste-to-energy system that processes over 50% of the city's waste to generate electricity and district heating. The city is aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030 through investments in renewable energy and green transport.
Electric vehicles (EVs) make up over 35% of new car sales in Oslo, supported by an extensive network of over 2,000 charging stations. Public transport usage is high, with nearly 60% of residents using trams, buses, or trains daily. Oslo also maintains over 400 parks and green spaces, ensuring a well-balanced urban environment.
8. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is widely recognised for its clean public spaces and well-organised waste management. The city achieves a 91% recycling rate for glass and 76% for paper, among the highest in Europe. Residents separate waste into 17 different categories for efficient recycling.
Zurich’s public transport system is used by over 70% of residents, reducing traffic emissions. The city has adopted a long-term energy strategy aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2050. Zurich’s air quality index averages below 30, ensuring a clean and healthy environment.
9. Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide has made significant progress in waste reduction, achieving a 85% waste diversion rate from landfills. The city aims to become carbon neutral by 2050, with 50% of energy currently sourced from renewables.
Public transport and cycling initiatives have reduced emissions, with 10% of residents using bicycles for daily commutes. Adelaide is also home to Australia’s first solar-powered bus fleet, further supporting sustainable urban transport. The city’s tree canopy covers 27% of urban areas, improving air quality and reducing urban heat.
10. Freiburg, Germany
Freiburg is known for its commitment to sustainability, with 60% of its energy generated from renewable sources, primarily solar and wind power. The city has an extensive 500 km cycling network, with over 40% of residents using bicycles as their primary mode of transport.
Freiburg’s waste management system diverts over 70% of waste from landfills through recycling and composting initiatives. The Vauban district, a model of sustainable urban living, operates with nearly zero carbon emissions and is powered primarily by solar energy.
Final thoughts
The world’s cleanest cities demonstrate that maintaining high environmental standards requires a combination of effective governance, public participation, and long-term sustainability strategies. Each city on this list has implemented structured waste management systems, efficient public transport networks, and initiatives to reduce emissions, ensuring cleaner urban spaces and healthier living conditions.
By integrating technology, community engagement, and environmental policies, these cities set a benchmark for urban cleanliness, demonstrating how proactive measures can create healthier and more sustainable urban environments for future generations.
Shikha Negi is a Content Writer at ztudium with expertise in writing and proofreading content. Having created more than 500 articles encompassing a diverse range of educational topics, from breaking news to in-depth analysis and long-form content, Shikha has a deep understanding of emerging trends in business, technology (including AI, blockchain, and the metaverse), and societal shifts, As the author at Sarvgyan News, Shikha has demonstrated expertise in crafting engaging and informative content tailored for various audiences, including students, educators, and professionals.
