Leading Cities in Sustainable Innovation

Paris, London, New York. Our global cities are synonymous with innovation and all things cutting edge—yet as some of the world’s worst polluters, they’re far from future-proof when it comes to climate change.

Many cities worldwide have committed to creating a sustainable future for people and the planet. But can our busy urban centers really go green? From zero-waste restaurants to eco-friendly architecture, here’s how eight cities are leading the way in sustainable practices.

Note: During COVID-19, there are restrictions on travel. Check the latest guidance before departure, and always follow local health advice.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen aims to be the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025 and is making significant progress. Less than 2% of the city’s waste goes to landfill; the rest is recycled or converted into energy at Copenhill (Amager Resource Center), the city’s innovative waste-to-energy power plant, which doubles as an artificial ski slope.

Getting around Copenhagen is greener than ever, with solar-powered boats and electric buses enhancing a network of established cycle routes and pedestrian-friendly streets. Visitors can even swim in the harbor’s clean waters at Islands Brygge Havnebadet.

The zero-waste movement is gaining traction; eco-enthusiasts can stock up on snacks at packaging-free LØS Market or enjoy a meal at Amass, where “waste” ingredients such as stems, seeds, and skins are transformed into gourmet dishes or composted for the restaurant’s organic garden.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is a city built for those who cherish the outdoors; thoughtful urban planning, ample public parks, and well-maintained urban forests complement the region’s natural beauty—including the majestic Mt. Hood in the distance. The city boasts a very pedestrian-friendly environment and has the highest rate of biking to work of any US city.

In Portland, sustainability is an embodiment of community spirit. An abundance of thrift shops, Little Free Libraries, tool libraries, zero-waste pop-ups, vegan restaurants, and DIY workshops encourage locals to embrace the mantra of “reduce, reuse, recycle.”

Singapore

Facing a dense and growing population, Singapore’s waste levels are increasing, indicating that the country’s only landfill site, Semakau, is on track to fill up by 2035. However, Singapore is known for its innovation, earning the title of most sustainable city in Asia in 2018.

Attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Jewel Changi, and Marina One have been designed with sustainability in focus, and by 2030, 80% of the city’s architecture will be eco-friendly. The zero-waste trend is gathering speed, as stores like Ugly Food and UnPackt are transforming how Singaporeans purchase everyday essentials.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon was recognized as the EU Commission’s Green Capital for 2020. An additional 300 acres of parkland have been integrated into the city, allowing 85% of residents in Portugal’s capital to live within 300m of a green space. Electric vehicle usage is on the rise, with numerous charging stations, electric bike, scooter, and moped sharing schemes, along with a new fleet of electric buses. Notably, the tourist tuk-tuks have been electric since 2017.

For eco-friendly shopping, head to LX Factory, a creative hub filled with upcycled fashion boutiques, vegan footwear brands, and sustainable homeware stores. If you’re hungry, shop for packaging-free goods at Maria Granel or savor daTerra Bairro Alto’s vegan pastéis de nata.

Bengaluru, India

Bengaluru—India’s Silicon Valley—is currently sharing the title of the most congested city in the world (alongside Manila). While commuting tech employees contribute to the traffic congestion, they are also devising solutions. Local scooter rental company Bounce has added 1,000 electric scooters to its fleet, while Yulu e-bikes and carpooling app Quickride are actively reducing traffic on the city’s roads.

The trend of eco-conscious living is also gaining momentum. Now, you can find packaging-free groceries and eco-friendly beauty products at Green Mantra Store. Moreover, you can enjoy freshly made juice from disposable fruit-skin or coconut-shell cups at Eat Raja, or stay at environmentally-aware Cuckoo hostel, which provides bike rentals, a terrace garden, and furnishings made from upcycled materials.

Vancouver, Canada

With quick access to forests, mountains, and beaches, Vancouver is motivated to contribute positively to the planet. Since 2010, over 122,000 trees have been planted in the city, with a target of reaching 150,000. The city boasts some of the lowest emissions in North America and aims to go completely zero-waste by 2040—an endeavor reflected in eco-friendly grocery stores and cafés like Nada and Kind Cafe.

Community engagement is key to many sustainable initiatives in Vancouver, including neighborhood cleanup events and shared gardens. For instance, the Vancouver Public Library features a green roof to improve rainwater management and regulate building temperatures, while the accessible rooftop garden hosts drought-resistant native plants and solar panels. Additionally, the 17-mile (28 km) Seaside Greenway—the longest continuous waterfront path in the world—connects many of Vancouver’s public spaces, including the Stanley Park Seawall.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Slovenia is renowned for its pristine countryside; however, its capital offers urban visitors a breath of fresh air. The vibrant and clean Ljubljana is increasingly green: streets are routinely cleaned with rain and recycled water; over 10 hectares of the city center are pedestrianized; and sophisticated waste management systems now allow the city to send 80% less waste to landfill than it did in 2008, with a goal of reducing that to just 60 kg per person per year by 2025.

Ljubljana is the first European city to commit to a zero-waste goal. Its waste management company, Voka Snaga, operates a zero-waste vending machine that offers organic cleaning products, shampoos, vinegar, and oil to customers who bring their own reusable packaging. Moreover, Rifuzl provides a brick-and-mortar store to further encourage sustainable practices.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco was the first city in the US to ban plastic bags, with plastic straws and utensils prohibited since July 2019. The city excels in waste management, sending less trash to landfills than any other city in the country, recycling, composting, or reusing 80% of its waste.

What’s beneficial for the animals aligns with ecological interests, and you’ll find diverse plant-based restaurants throughout the city—local favorites include Beloved Cafe and Gracias Madre. Additionally, bulk store Rainbow Grocery is a beloved local establishment. For those looking to stay active, don’t let the hilly terrain deter you—San Francisco is the second most walkable city in the US.