Metropolises like Copenhagen, Reykjavik or Vancouver have one thing in common: they want to protect the climate. With innovative measures and environmentally conscious ideas, they are setting new standards to make the world more sustainable in the long term. We tell you which cities around the world are ecological role models.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish capital is a pioneer in "zero waste", which means that no waste is produced. If something does end up in the garbage, it is recycled and converted into usable energy. Furthermore, nowhere can you get around more sustainably than in Copenhagen. Electric buses, solar-powered boats and bike lanes support the environmentally conscious lifestyle. The city's goal of becoming the most climate-neutral city in the world by 2025 can thus be absolutely achieved.

Reykjavik, Iceland

The climate in the Icelandic city is cold to mild all year round. Even in summer, temperatures barely exceed 15 degrees, so heating is a must. It doesn't sound eco-friendly at first, but the islanders have turned their numerous volcanoes into useful energy sources. Pipelines next to active volcanoes heat water that supplies households. Electricity is also generated from environmentally friendly hydroelectric power. People virtually live a CO2-neutral life there.

Singapore

Almost half of Singapore's land area consists of green space. And not the usual meadows and forests, but high up in the sky. The Asian metropolis greens so-called "sky parks" on top of skyscrapers. Many of these lawns extend over 15,000 square meters. The advantage of this is that the planting provides shade and thus cools the building. Solar systems and rainwater catchment basins as energy generators have long been part of the building standards there - all in the interests of the environment.

Lisbon, Portugal

The Portuguese capital was the "European Capital of the Environment" in 2020. The EU Commission awarded it this title - in recognition and, of course, as an incentive. And for good reason: 85% of the people live within 300 meters of green spaces. Sustainability is also a priority when it comes to shopping. A shopping centre with fair labels and upcycling boutiques has been built, and you can buy packaging-free products at open food markets.

Vancouver, Canada

Since 2010, over 122,000 trees have been planted in Canada's third largest city, resulting in the city's emissions being among the lowest in North America. What's more, local grocery stores are aiming to eliminate waste by 2040. From neighborhood clean-up parties to community gardens, the community is known for eco-friendly social initiatives. Vancouver has another ambitious plan: the city wants to rely on 100 % renewable energy by 2050. The conditions are certainly right.

Picture Credits: Mike Benna / Unsplash, Tim Russman / Unsplash, Laurens Van der Drift, Martin Robles / Unsplash, Sergio Sala / Unsplash