Denmark: A Wind-Powered Wonderland
Denmark has managed to turn its blustery weather into a superpower. Over 50% of Denmark’s electricity now comes from wind and solar, making it a true leader in renewable energy. The government’s ambitious goal is to be carbon-neutral by 2045, which sounds like a far-off dream, but they’re already making it a reality. A walk through Copenhagen feels like a glimpse into the future: bikes outnumber cars, and vast offshore wind farms twirl on the horizon. In 2024, Denmark increased its offshore wind capacity by another 1.2 GW, a record in the European Union. The Danish carbon tax, implemented in 2022, is one of the toughest in the world, pushing industries to clean up quickly. It’s hard not to feel inspired when you see how Denmark’s citizens and leaders have made clean energy a national identity. Their example is a bold reminder that small countries can lead the way.
Costa Rica: The Little Green Giant
Costa Rica might be tiny, but it’s a giant when it comes to environmental action. The country has generated more than 98% of its electricity from renewable sources for nearly a decade, breaking its own records year after year. In 2025, Costa Rica’s forests covered over 57% of the land, an incredible turnaround from the 1980s, when deforestation was rampant. National parks and reforestation projects have brought wildlife back from the brink. The government banned single-use plastics in protected areas, and the plan to eliminate fossil fuels altogether is moving forward. Every year, Costa Rica runs for months entirely on hydro, wind, and solar power. Even its public buses are going electric. For a country with just over 5 million people, Costa Rica makes you believe that size doesn’t matter—commitment does.
Sweden: Masters of Recycling and Green Living
Sweden has been quietly crushing climate goals before most countries even knew they existed. Since 1991, Sweden’s carbon tax has been one of the highest in the world, and it shows: per capita emissions are among the lowest in the developed world. In 2024, Sweden recycled 99% of its household waste, and the rest is converted into energy. The streets of Stockholm are filled with biofuel-powered buses, and even the buildings are designed with green living in mind. Swedish innovation doesn’t stop at recycling—the country is pioneering sustainable construction, with wooden skyscrapers and energy-efficient homes popping up everywhere. The government’s target is to be fossil fuel–free by 2045, and they’re ahead of schedule. Sweden proves that with the right mix of policy and culture, sustainability can be woven into everyday life.
Bhutan: The World’s Only Carbon-Negative Country
Bhutan is a tiny Himalayan kingdom that does something most countries only dream of: it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it emits. In fact, the Bhutanese constitution requires that at least 60% of the country remain forested at all times—a promise the government takes seriously. In 2025, forest cover held steady at 71%, and hydroelectricity provided nearly all domestic energy. Bhutan sells clean hydropower to neighboring India, which both brings in revenue and keeps its own emissions low. What’s even more remarkable is Bhutan’s focus on Gross National Happiness rather than just GDP. Policies are evaluated not only for economic impact but also for their effect on well-being and the environment. Bhutan’s way of life feels like a breath of fresh air in a world choked by carbon.
Germany: The Energiewende Pioneer
Germany is famous for engineering and efficiency, so it’s no surprise that it’s also a trailblazer in green energy. The Energiewende, or “energy turnaround,” has seen Germany invest billions in wind, solar, and biomass. By mid-2025, renewables supplied nearly 52% of Germany’s electricity. The country is phasing out coal entirely by 2030 and shut down its last nuclear plant in 2023. Subsidies for rooftop solar panels make it easy for families to go green, and environmental education is part of the school curriculum. Despite struggles with old coal infrastructure, Germany’s vision for a fossil-free future is clear and determined. Their practical, no-nonsense approach sets a powerful example for industrialized nations everywhere.
New Zealand: Nature at the Heart of Policy
New Zealand’s lush landscapes aren’t just for postcards—they’re protected by some of the world’s most progressive environmental policies. The Zero Carbon Act, passed in 2019, made carbon neutrality by 2050 a legal requirement. In 2024, New Zealand was among the first countries to tackle agricultural methane, a major greenhouse gas from sheep and cattle. Offshore oil and gas exploration is banned, and huge conservation efforts are underway to save endangered species like the kiwi and the kakapo. In everyday life, Kiwis are encouraged to compost, recycle, and use renewable energy. Even city buses are going electric. New Zealand’s approach combines science, law, and a deep respect for nature—proving that policy can protect even the wildest corners of the earth.
United States: Big Steps, Bigger Stumbles
The United States is a land of extremes—home to some of the world’s greenest cities and also some of the highest greenhouse gas emitters. In 2024, the U.S. accounted for about 14% of the world’s total carbon emissions, second only to China. While states like California and New York are racing ahead with renewable energy and electric vehicles, federal climate policy remains inconsistent and often subject to political winds. Oil and gas lobbying is powerful, and fossil fuels still dominate the national energy mix. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 made historic investments in clean energy, but progress is patchwork and slow. Per capita emissions remain among the highest in the world. For every inspiring solar farm, there are still giant coal plants chugging away. The U.S. has the resources and innovation to lead, but it hasn’t fully committed to the race.
Australia: Sunburned by Fossil Fuels
Australia is a paradox: it’s blessed with more sunshine than almost any country, yet still leans heavily on coal and gas. In 2024, Australia was the world’s largest exporter of coal and among the top for liquefied natural gas. Devastating bushfires and coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef have made headlines, but change has been slow. Emissions targets are weak, and fossil fuel subsidies continue, even as solar and wind power grow rapidly. Renewable energy now makes up about 32% of the grid, but political will wavers. The country’s vast deserts could power millions of homes, but investment is still limited. Australians are passionate about their unique environment, yet government policy often puts profits before the planet.
Saudi Arabia: Oil-Rich and Change-Resistant
Saudi Arabia is synonymous with oil—its economy revolves around petroleum, and that’s unlikely to change overnight. In 2025, Saudi Arabia remained one of the world’s largest oil producers with some of the highest per capita emissions. The government has announced plans for “Vision 2030,” including futuristic solar cities and investment in renewables, but progress is slow. Only about 0.2% of its energy comes from renewables today. While the country has taken steps like hosting the Middle East Green Initiative, most of its economy still relies on fossil fuels. Policy changes are gradual, hampered by global oil demand and domestic priorities. Saudi Arabia’s future depends on how quickly it can pivot toward sustainability.
Japan: Cautious Steps Forward
Japan faces unique challenges, from limited domestic energy resources to a high population density. After the Fukushima disaster in 2011, the country shut down most of its nuclear reactors, leading to a temporary spike in fossil fuel use. In 2024, Japan recommitted to net-zero emissions by 2050 and ramped up investment in hydrogen and solar power. Solar panels are appearing on rooftops even in crowded Tokyo, and the government is pushing for more offshore wind. However, coal and natural gas still play a big role in the energy mix. Japan’s culture of efficiency and innovation gives hope, but the transition is careful and sometimes slow. The next few years will show whether Japan can accelerate its green ambitions.
Canada: Natural Riches, Environmental Dilemmas
Canada boasts vast forests, lakes, and wildlife, but also relies heavily on oil and gas. In 2025, Canada ranked among the top ten global emitters, with the oil sands in Alberta a major source of carbon. Yet the country has bold targets: net-zero emissions by 2050 and a phase-out of coal by 2030. Hydropower supplies over 60% of electricity, and provinces like Quebec and British Columbia lead on renewables. However, pipeline debates and slow progress on greenhouse gas reductions have stirred controversy. The Canadian government is investing billions in clean technology, but balancing economic interests with environmental protection remains a big challenge. Canadians are passionate about their natural heritage, but tough choices lie ahead.