Countries all over the world agreed to combat climate change and to accelerate and intensify the actions and investments needed for a sustainable low carbon future.

The Green Building Initiative (GBI) is an international effort towards creating sustainable, resource-efficient buildings. They offer a certification program for commercial buildings who adhere to their environmentally-friendly vision.

Switzerland’s heavy dependence on renewable energy and aggressive action against urban sprawl are additional reasons why it’s a global leader in environmental sustainability. In fact, Switzerland ranks 1st in the 2018 Environmental Performance Index.

Denmark ranks 3rd in the 2018 Environmental Performance Index and that may be partly due to the country’s preference for bicycles over personal cars. In 2014, the government introduced a national campaign aimed at encouraging its citizens to use their bikes more often.

Along with its commitment to reduce emissions by 40 percent in 2020, Denmark is on pace to be one of the top countries with impeccable air quality.

Sweden is consistently among the most progressive countries in terms of care for the environment. The Swedish government’s waste management policies have led to just 1 percent of solid waste in landfills and 99 percent of it recycled or made into biogas. It currently has one of the lowest emissions in Europe, having decreased by almost 20 percent since 1990.

In 2017, a €1.8 million investment to the national waste prevention program helped farmers reduce their greenhouse gas emissions through technological efficiencies.

The quality of Ireland’s water is also among the best in Europe, thanks to the great attention and care they give in monitoring the quality of the water—and the abundant marine life—in their lakes, rivers, and waterways.