The cleanest cities in Europe: the Nordic capitals shine

Helsinki, Stockholm, Reykjavik, and Oslo lead the way in urban cleanliness

A recent ranking of European cities by a German health portal has highlighted the cleanest and healthiest cities, with Northern Europe leading the charge. The study evaluated 48 cities based on air quality, green spaces, drinking water, and waste management. Here’s a closer look at the top four cities that dominate the list.

Helsinki as a model of urban well-being

The Finnish capital, Helsinki, tops the ranking as the cleanest city in Europe. Known for its exceptional air quality, the city offers well-maintained green spaces and some of the purest drinking water. Helsinki also received high scores from residents for its efficient waste management system. The city's dedication to environmental care significantly boosts the quality of life for its citizens and makes it a favorite among visitors.

Stockholm: Green and clean

Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, comes in second place. Like Helsinki, Stockholm excels in air quality and has a high percentage of green spaces. The city’s drinking water is among the cleanest, offering safe and fresh water to its residents. However, waste management in Stockholm received slightly lower ratings than other top cities, but it still remains one of the cleanest urban environments in Europe.

Reykjavik shines with pure air and water

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, secures third place in the ranking. The city is celebrated for having the best air quality and drinking water of all cities surveyed. Despite its outstanding environmental quality, Reykjavik loses points for its smaller and lower-quality green spaces compared to its Nordic counterparts.

Oslo offers clean air, but limited green space

Oslo, Norway’s capital, ranks fourth. The city boasts excellent air quality and pristine drinking water. While Oslo is known for its cleanliness, its relatively low proportion of green spaces kept it from securing a spot on the podium.

These cities set a high standard for urban cleanliness and well-being, reflecting the Northern European commitment to environmental sustainability and public health. For residents and visitors alike, these cities offer a refreshing environment that promotes both physical and mental well-being.

Vienna, Valencia, Hamburg, Salzburg, Edinburgh, Munich, and Zurich round out the top 11, demonstrating a wide European commitment to clean, healthy living.

More on the cleanest cities in Europe.

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