Sustainability has been on the rise for the past few years due to the realization of how urgent it is that we conserve our planet. The people, including governments, companies, and residents, have been adopting sustainable practices that limit the effects on the environment and pave a safer future. Here are inspiring case studies of best sustainable practices around the world.
Costa Rica Flips on Renewable Energy Revolution
This tiny Central American nation has run 300 days so far in 2019 powered by 100 percent renewable energy. The country's efforts to employ the green sources of energy, such as hydroelectric power, wind, and geothermal energy had led to this fruition. Now, it generates over 99 percent of its electricity from renewable sources. Costa Rica showed the world that the environmentally sustainable future is possible, yet not expensive and effective, establishing a nationwide target to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Cycling Revolution in Copenhagen
Denmark's capital city, Copenhagen, has made itself the world's most bicycle-friendly city. It has now been reported that an overwhelming 62 percent of citizens engage in daily bicycle commuting. The city has sunk heavily into the creation of the cycling infrastructure with well over 400 kilometers of bike lanes and "cycle superhighways" that connect suburbs to city center, which reduces emissions but also promotes a healthy lifestyle for residents. It aims to be carbon neutral by 2025. Its cycling culture is an important ingredient in its effort.
Japan's Waste Management System
Japan is notably known for its surprisingly efficient waste management system. In Kamikatsu there is a zero-waste vision, set to be accomplished by the year 2030. The residents categorise their wastes into 45 groups, and recycle and compost are strictly divided. Kamikatsu has nearly eliminated landfills and incinerators, and reuses or recycles almost 80 percent of its waste. This system, although apparently very laborious, has actually reduced pollution and made the people internalise a culture of sustainability and responsibility.
Green Agriculture in the Netherlands
This little but very great nation is replete with contributions to global food markets. Being small, the Netherlands is the second largest exporter of agricultural products worldwide because of the sustainable nature in which they farm. Dutch farmers today use technology such as vertical farming, hydroponics, and greenhouses to both conserve land and water and limit the use of pesticides. Carbon footprint has been lowered while feeding the world simultaneously; this example has shown that innovation in agriculture makes it possible for it to be both environmentally conscious and food-conscious in all respects.
India's Solar Power Boom
India has been in the high spot in the renewable energy space; most notably, solar power. A clean energy producer of over 2,200 MW of capacity within the nation's largest solar park located in Rajasthan at Bhadla Solar Park has broken its reliance on fossil fuel. Not only is it helping the government meet all these energy requirements, but the push towards solar is giving jobs and pushing the economy upwards.
All these examples suggest that sustainability is no longer a trend but a need. The case studies above depict how the environment, as well as the economy, benefit from the practice of sustainability. More countries and communities like these should follow the right footsteps for a greener better future.