UK tops eco-city list in Europe

A survey recently published by the University of Westminster has shown that the UK has the most eco-cities in the whole of Europe. The survey shows that Asia has one […]

A survey recently published by the University of Westminster has shown that the UK has the most eco-cities in the whole of Europe. The survey shows that Asia has one third of the total number of cities across the globe, with China topping the list internationally.

Eco-cities look to encourage renewable energy use, promote public transport, reduce waste and improve water quality.Around 80 cities around the world have pledged to become eco-cities and have started on innovation programmes. This includes new cities to be built entirely from scratch, such as Masdar in the United Arab Emirates and also includes many ‘retro-fit’ developments.

Professor Simon Joss, lead researcher at the University of Westminster said: “Efforts to make cities environmentally and socially sustainable and innovate in urban development have, in recent decades, culminated in a new phenomenon, primarily aimed at meeting the dual challenge of climate change and rapid urbanisation.”

The top five nations are:

Country (Number of eco-cities)
China (25)
UK (18)
USA (17)
Japan (16)
India (15)

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