The first step to planning an eco-friendly vacation is to choose a destination that supports environmental sustainability, but also makes it easy and affordable to enjoy your trip. Check out our picks for green cities around the globe that promise to pack a punch.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is more than just good looks and Gaudi. This pedestrian-friendly Spanish haven won the ManagEnergy Local Action Award in 2007, and has recently introduced the Solar Thermal Ordinance, which regulates the implementation of low-temperature systems in buildings. Toss in the fact that solar energy and green parking strategies are all part of its urban regeneration plan, and you’ve got a hot green destination.
Austin, Texas
One of the highest ranked eco-friendly cities in North America, Austin Texas stands out in its traditional Texas locale for implementation of energy efficiency audits and reduction of fossil fuel habits. One of the most popular times to visit is during Austin City Limits – a famously environmentally friendly music festival each summer. If you can’t make it that week, check out the award-winning City Hall building, which boasts a green roof with native plants and a wide-range of solar panels that hosts free local and live music performances each Friday.
Auckland, New Zealand
‘Be a tidy Kiwi’ is a favorite saying throughout New Zealand, particularly in Auckland where 44 percent of the city is currently reserved as green areas. Kiwis understand that the stunning natural landscape which draws in so many tourists is protected by an ozone layer far thinner than elsewhere on the planet. That means global warming is always on the public agenda, and explains this country’s obsession with outlawing pollution. Earth Hour is widely celebrated across New Zealand each year, and farmers even pay a methane tax on cows!
Malmo, Sweden
Few cities in the world can compete with Malmo’s immaculate eco standards. Building an efficiently networked public transportation system, including extensive walking and cycling paths, is just one of its current projects. Malmo also aims to convert to 100 percent renewable energy by 2020, and channels its goals through socially, ecologically and economically sustainable programs
Sydney, Australia
Talk about being the brightest bulb on the block – this city in the Land Down Under is the first on the planet to stop the use of incandescent light bulbs. Instead, it has replaced them with eco-friendly versions that last 4-10 times longer and use only a fifth of the energy than the old-school bulbs. It also raised awareness by hosting a city-wide one-hour blackout, instating a food waste disposal program and by refurbishing buildings and public transportation vehicles with renewable energy capabilities.
Portland, Oregon
Let’s put it this way – it’s hard not to be green here. Portland Oregon is stacked with eco-options, so it’s easy to get around by parking your hybrid rental car at a solar-powered parking meter or hopping on a bike instead. Choose one of its organic restaurants to enjoy locally-grown fare, and take in the architectural sights that stem from the Green Investment Fund.
Freiburg, Germany
Green mastermind Rolf Disch has left is mark in Freiburg. His Heliotrop House, which rotates according to the sun, season, and temperature maximizes environmental efficiency by utilizing nature’s own heating and cooling patterns. After World War II, the entire city was rebuilt on to environmental standards, and its infrastructure is now intelligently designed with car-free streets and an entire solar village.
Vancouver, Canada
Loved by nature enthusiasts all over the world, Vancouver is known for all things green. As British Columbia’s largest city, it draws an impressive 90 percent of its power from renewable resources, and holds the title for leader in hydroelectric power. With 200 parks and more than 18 miles of waterfront, Vancouver has huge potential for wind solar, wave and tidal energy innovation, and has a 100-year plan for sustainability to prove it.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The 1.7 million people that live in Copenhagen use bicycles and the metro system far more frequently than they drive cars. In 2006, it won the European Environmental Award for clean waterways and environmental planning for its strong use of waterpower and windmills. Approximately 5,600 windmills supply 10 percent of the entire country’s electricity, and almost a decade ago, it opened the world’s largest offshore windmill park, which powers 32,000 homes.
Montreal, Quebec
From its Bixi bike-sharing program that offers 3,000 bikes in 300 different locations, to the Montreal Protocol that regulates emissions that damage the ozone later, Montreal has environmentalism covered from the ground up. Spend your day walking through the lavish botanical gardens and purchasing local goods from open-air markets. By night, rest easy at one of many eco-chic boutique hotels.
Want more green travel ideas? Check our Travel(eco)nomics Report.
