Where are the greenest cities in the UK, what makes them more sustainable than others, and do you live in one without even knowing?
Below is a list of the most highly ranked green and eco-friendly cities within the UK. What they have implemented to make this list, and how was this assessed comparatively.
Coming in First:
From The Guardian research, it was determined that Exeter was placed at the top for the most eco and sustainable city within the UK. This was closely followed by North London, Bristol, Cambridge, and Bournemouth. So, what makes these cities stand out from the rest?
Different areas of eco and sustainable living were assessed when carrying out this research. These different sectors included tree cover, vegetarian diets, as well as the volume of park and sports field cover.
With hotels and companies implementing green rooftops, urban environments, and sustainability factors are booming now more than ever. This ensures little pockets of sustainable and green areas are available; even at the heart of a busy city. This is to increase the appeal and aesthetically pleasing views, which results in eco-tourism flourishing.
These are all efforts from the council and the public to increase the comfort of city life. These outlets for greenery reduce air pollution and noise in certain areas.
This results in a cleaner and greener way of living. Many argue this has a positive effect not just on the environment, but also on the mental health and wellbeing of those who live in these densely populated areas.
The Lesser Green Cities:
The assessment carried out by the Guardian research team provided insight to show a decline in ‘green’ living further North of the UK. This includes Liverpool, Leeds, and Sheffield. However, Glasgow came in as the lowest scoring ‘Green’ city.
So, why are these cities ranking lower on the scale than the South?
It was concluded that cities that were suggested to be less sustainable or green, were due to the history of their environment.
More northern cities had primarily focused their efforts on building their industrial and trade commerce that massively impacted their economy.
This had numerous benefits of its own. However it was assessed that the prioritisation of industry meant that initially, environmental factors were put to the side.
This has resulted in a restructuring of priorities for certain cities, as they realise the importance of green and sustainable living.
Due to this, these cities now strive to implement eco-friendly aspects within their population to promote the conservation of the environment.
The Sunvolt team fully supports the implementation of Solar and renewable energy to help make cities more eco-friendly.
Through renewable energy resources there will be less reliance on fossil fuels that produce harmful green house gases. These emissions cause detrimental effects to our environment and climate.
Assessing and implementing Green ways of living must be highlighted across the UK. This is so cities can be accountable for their energy output.
