The environment is a big issue for many of the world’s countries. Billions are spent on making our world a cleaner place yearly. More policies and technological advances help, but the people’s cooperation is what is truly needed. Most do what they can, but some go far and above and aim to make their country the cleanest and greenest it can possibly be, in air, water and land. What are these countries that are the hallmarks of cleanliness?

1. Switzerland – With an environmental performance index (EPI) of 95.5, this European country ranks first in cleanliness. The environment has been in the country’s interest as early as 1876 when it passed a forestry law. There are many major influential pro-environment groups in the country. Nearly all electricity comes from dams and nuclear plants, reducing emissions caused by burning fossil fuels. Strict standards for exhaust are placed on vehicles to lower air pollution. The country is also one of the top recyclers in the world, with stiff penalties levied on offenders. If you want clean, this is the place to be.

2. Sweden – Coming in second with 93.1 are these two countries. Like Switzerland, almost all power is produced without fossil fuels. A good percentage of Sweden’s forests still stand thanks to the people’s efforts, up to today. Like most clean countries, they have emission laws in place. Yet another clean place you can visit!

3. Norway – Tied with Sweden, Norway still uses some forms of oil to power the nation. Norway was once a heavy air polluter, but that has changed after Norway took steps to reduce emissions. A good portion of its land is also protected. It’s always a good time to visit Norway.

4. Finland – Unlike the first three, Finland still uses fossil fuels for power, but this is gradually lessening. Finland takes care of its shores, assigning a majority that can never be built on. Like all the other now-clean nations, it had a past problem with pollution until the government decided to act. Now, it’s one of the cleanest places in the world. I’d love to go there!

5. Costa Rica – It may be unexpected for some, but Costa Rica comes in fifth. This country has a large total area dedicated to parks. Early on in its history, Costa Rica was already acting to have water and air standards. Almost a quarter of the country is protected to preserve wildlife, one of the largest percentages in the world! The nation also contains 5% of the entire world’s species! The country is generally poor but educated, and is the most stable country in its region. They still make an effort for the environment. If they didn’t, they wouldn’t have all those lovely beachside resorts to bring in tourists! They are the most visited place in Central America. Why not come, too?

Next time you plan a vacation, why not go somewhere where you’re sure to breathe clean air? It will be good for you! What are your experiences in these countries? Speak up!

Water is a near-infinite resource in our world. However, that’s not enough! Water may be everywhere, but are you sure it is clean? Is the water you drink or the river near your house clean? The nearby river or creek may not have the same sparkling water you can find in a beach resort, but that’s no excuse to leave it as it is! We should all do our part to make sure all types of water is clean. How? Here are my tips.

1. Wash those water dispensers! A lot of people are not aware that those hot and cold dispensers may be dirty. Bacteria stick to the hot and cold taps, as well as the inside when you change the bottle. Over time, all that bacteria accumulates. Eventually, every glass you drink is laced with bacteria! You don’t want any children to get sick, do you? To prevent this, clean your water dispenser by running bleach through it every month. Rinse it by running a lot of tap water through. This also applies to any water containers you reuse. Make sure you wash them!

2. Clean up animal droppings. Storms can carry that stuff to rivers and creeks, dirtying the water and introducing bacteria. Keep them clean by disposing of poop in the trash bin! It may be disgusting to handle it, and I will be the first to say that, but remember that it is for the environment! Getting your hands dirty is no big thing.

3. Have your water tested. If you get your water from a well, make sure to have it tested at least every few months, specifically for nitrate. If you get it from a public supply, make sure that it’s a clean supply! If you’re paranoid, you may even want to test that. It may cost money, but prevention is better than cure any day. I’m glad my own water supply is clean. Make sure it complies to the Clean Water Act!

4. Wash on your lawn. Clean your car on the lawn instead of the driveway; better have the soapy water absorbed into the ground instead of making soapy runoff. For that matter do all your washing on the lawn! Runoff can pick up pollutants en route to its destination, so better if you can reduce that. My neighbors wash their animals in the front yard. You may also want to redirect downspouts from your roof to the lawn, or into a container so you can use it for watering later.

5. Don’t be trim-happy! If you live near the bank of a body of water, keep the vegetation there as is! Plants, grass and trees prevent and reduce erosion and hold back pollutants, so do not cut them down or mow them. You’ll be glad you did, one day. You get to keep more actual land on your property!

Whew! It may be tedious, but we can do all our part for clean water. What tips do you live by?