A Look at the World’s Front-Runners in Environmental Action
I’ve always felt a responsibility to take care of the planet. And since becoming a parent, I’ve found myself increasingly reflecting on what kind of world my son will inherit. As I watch him explore, I can’t help but wonder, will he have access to clean air, water, and healthy ecosystems when he’s older? Or will he face the harsh consequences of our environmental choices?
These thoughts have pushed me to look beyond my eco-conscious lifestyle and consider a larger question: which countries are leading the way in environmentalism, and what lessons can we learn from them?
Costa Rica
Let’s start with Costa Rica, a country often seen as a beacon of environmental hope. It has generated 100% renewable energy, primarily through hydroelectric, wind, and solar power.
Beyond its commitment to clean energy, Costa Rica has made remarkable strides in reforestation. Once devastated by deforestation, Costa Rica is now one of the few countries in the world where forests are growing, not shrinking. Through an innovative payment system for ecosystem services, farmers receive compensation to conserve forests, driving a dramatic reversal in deforestation trends. This model has restored biodiversity and provided economic support to local communities.
While Costa Rica has achieved impressive progress in renewable energy and reforestation, the country still faces pressing challenges related to climate change. Rising global temperatures have brought more severe weather patterns, including prolonged droughts and intense rainfall, both of which strain the nation’s water supply and agricultural productivity.
Bhutan
Bhutan has gained international attention for its remarkable achievement of being carbon-negative. This means that Bhutan absorbs more carbon dioxide through its forests and natural ecosystems than it emits, positioning it as one of the most environmentally sustainable countries in the world.
The cornerstone of Bhutan’s environmental success lies in its commitment to forest conservation. The Bhutanese government has enshrined environmental protection in its constitution, mandating that a minimum of 60% of the country remain forested at all times. Bhutan’s innovative development philosophy, Gross National Happiness (GNH), complements this legal framework, emphasizing holistic well-being over economic growth. This approach fosters sustainable practices that align economic development with environmental practices.
However, Bhutan faces significant challenges in balancing its ambitious environmental goals with the necessity for economic growth. The country relies heavily on hydroelectric power for its energy needs. While hydroelectricity is a renewable resource — often seen as a strength — its overuse can harm river ecosystems and local biodiversity.
New Zealand
New Zealand, like Bhutan, has woven environmental values into its national identity and aims to set an example for sustainable development. The country was among the first to establish a comprehensive environmental policy, committing to carbon neutrality by 2050. The country has significantly invested in renewable energy, with around 80% of its electricity coming from hydroelectric, wind, and geothermal sources. Additionally, New Zealand has developed strict conservation policies, designating approximately 30% of its land as protected areas to preserve its unique biodiversity.
However, a closer examination reveals significant contradictions in New Zealand’s environmental narrative. One of the most prominent issues is the environmental impact of its dairy industry, which is a significant contributor to the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, accounts for almost half of New Zealand’s total emissions, with methane from cattle being a potent greenhouse gas.
Denmark
Hailed as a global leader in wind energy and carbon reduction, Denmark has set an ambitious precedent for environmentalism. The Danish government aims to phase out coal by 2030, and Copenhagen will become the world’s first carbon-neutral city by 2025. As of 2023, over 60% of the country’s electricity is generated from wind power, which places it at the forefront of the global transition to renewable energy.
However, Denmark still relies on fossil fuels and offshore oil production. Despite its advancements in renewable energy, Denmark remains one of Europe’s largest oil producers. This reliance on fossil fuels complicates its environmental narrative and raises questions about the sustainability of its energy transition efforts.
Takeaways
Examining the environmental efforts of countries like Costa Rica, Bhutan, New Zealand, and Denmark reveals valuable lessons about the complexities of achieving true sustainability.
These nations show that while ambitious policies and innovative practices — such as Costa Rica’s reforestation initiatives and Bhutan’s carbon-negative status — can lead to significant progress, challenges remain that threaten long-term success. For example, New Zealand’s agricultural practices illustrate that even environmentally committed nations can struggle to balance economic growth with ecological integrity.
These countries show the importance of embedding environmental policies into their laws. Sustainable change requires legal frameworks that prioritize ecological health and hold governments accountable. It’s essential for all nations to integrate strong environmental protections into their legislation, ensuring that the fight against climate change is not only a policy goal but a legal mandate.
As I think about the world my son will grow up in, I’m inspired by the progress these countries have made, but I’m also reminded that the work of protecting our planet is far from over. Whether it’s continuing to innovate in renewable energy or finding better ways to balance economic growth with environmental protection, the future depends on the choices we make today. By advocating for robust environmental laws and drawing inspiration from these global leaders, we can inspire collective efforts to ensure our children inherit a healthier, more sustainable world.
If you’re inspired to take action on climate policy, here are six impactful organizations and initiatives where you can make a difference:
- Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) — An organization focused on building bipartisan support for climate solutions, particularly through carbon pricing and climate legislation at both local and federal levels. CCL empowers volunteers to meet with lawmakers, write op-eds, and organize community events.
- 350.org — A global grassroots movement that works on campaigns to reduce carbon emissions, stop fossil fuel projects, and push for divestment. They offer resources to help individuals get involved in climate advocacy locally and internationally.
- The Sunrise Movement — A youth-led organization advocating for the Green New Deal and other ambitious climate policies in the U.S. They focus on organizing and mobilizing communities, especially young people, to demand climate action from government leaders.
- The Sierra Club — One of the oldest environmental organizations in the U.S., the Sierra Club works on local, national, and global levels to advocate for clean energy, climate resilience, and conservation policies. Their “Climate Action Teams” provide resources and campaigns for individuals interested in legislative action.
- Earthjustice — This nonprofit environmental law organization represents communities and groups in legal cases against polluters and government inaction. Earthjustice’s focus on legal pathways to enforce environmental laws offers individuals a way to support policy through financial contributions or volunteering.
- Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) — EDF works on market-based climate solutions, pushing for climate-friendly policies and corporate accountability. Their action network encourages members to contact policymakers and support policies like renewable energy incentives and emissions reduction targets.
