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!

We’ve heard it over and over. Oil is going to run out some day, and the government isn’t doing much about it! An article over at the Environmental News Network says that a poll with over 15,000 respondents said that majority believed that oil is running out. I agree! Especially with the oil prices rising! Even if some people claim that we won’t run out for a while, power plants running on coal and oil still pollute the environment! Luckily, we still make more power, through cleaner means.

1. Solar Energy. The sun is above our heads, shining until the world ends. Why not use it? One problem: solar energy is expensive! Science is finding a way to make it cheaper than oil or coal, but it will probably take another decade or so. Still, more and more people are investing in solar power, even solar power conferences like this one in 2008, and who knows? It may just become our largest source of energy! You can even make a solar generator at home for only around $300 for those sudden blackouts.

2. Wind Energy. Ah, the fresh morning breeze. Windmills have been around for a long time, and now we have turbines using the wind’s power for electricity! Prime places for wind, however, sometimes run into other interests like farms, cities or resorts. I can sort of understand that. I don’t want places like that resort in Bora Bora to disappear! Hopefully science can find a way to solve this.

3. Hydroelectric Power. Ever been on a powerful river? That current is strong! The river powers turbines that provide electricity. Water will keep flowing as long as the world is alive! We’re already aware of the effects of damming up a river, sometimes causing loss of homes, but it’s still a good source of energy.

4. Geothermal Power. Hot springs are a natural relaxation spot for many people. They can also be used for power! The steam and hot water can be used to turn turbines, and can also heat houses and buildings. Not only do you have a way to soak and relax, you have a power source, too! Sadly, not too many places in the world are prime spots for this type of power.

5. Ocean Power. Any surfer will tell you that those waves pack a wallop! So it’s only natural that they can be used for energy. Tides make water rise and fall, and wind along the ocean surface can make waves. Wave power is already used by some lighthouses and buoys, even! Canada and France already have power plants that use the power of the tides to make electricity. A third, experimental system uses heat flow in oceans, but it’s still being researched. All methods are expensive, though. But we have science for that!

There you have it! In case one day we run out of oil and coal, by then, we will have enough knowledge to let these energies power our world. What method do you prefer?

You may also want to read these articles:

• 5 Anti Global Warming Tips You Can Do
• 4 Good Things About Biofuel
• Nuclear Power