The majority of Americans feel that the federal government ought to take greater action to halt climate change.
Some states are taking significantly less action than others to increase energy efficiency, reduce the use of fossil fuels, and safeguard the air, water, and land quality, despite rising concerns about the climate issue.
In this blog article, we’ll examine some of the greenest states in the U.S. in more detail. We’ll discover what makes them so eco-friendly and why we should praise them for their efforts.
6 Greenest States in the U.S.
1# California
California has long been well known for its dedication to conserving and safeguarding the environment. The state has adopted several incentives and initiatives to encourage renewable energy and energy efficiency in the last few years. Moreover, it has upheld some of the nation’s strictest standards for the quality of its water and air for many years.
California is also home to several state parks, open space reserves, and wildlife refuges. While protecting the state’s stunning landscapes and wildlife, these locations offer educational opportunities and leisure pursuits for both residents of California and tourists. So, if you’re looking for a state where you can change your way of life and live sustainably, put California at the top of your list.
2# Vermont
The Green Mountain State also stands true to its moniker. It has the lowest overall power generation from nonrenewable energy sources in the United States. More than any other state, Vermont generated almost all of its power last year from renewable sources.
Also notable, more than half of the state’s utility-scale production was produced by traditional hydroelectricity in the past year. According to the Vermont Comprehensive Energy Plan, the state is on schedule to obtain 90% of its energy from renewable sources by 2050.
3# New York
When you think of New York, you’re probably thinking of NYC and its attractions, busy streets, and skyscrapers. However, this state is so much more than that. For a long time, the state of New York has had a strong commitment to preserving the environment and minimizing the adverse effects of pollution.
For instance, the state has significantly invested in renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and geothermal energy. It has also implemented several initiatives to cut energy use and advance energy efficiency.
New York has various protected areas, like the Adirondack Mountains and the Catskill Forest Preserve. All of them are crucial for maintaining biological diversity and natural ecosystems. New York has also passed rules to safeguard wetlands and forests.
As a result, there is now a decrease in water and air pollution, making New York one of the greenest states in the U.S.
4# Massachusetts
Massachusetts ranks third in terms of its dedication to the environment. This makes it one of the greenest states in the nation. The state government has made significant investments in the growth of renewable energy sources. As a result, various laws are in place to lower carbon emissions.
Additionally, Massachusetts has protected and preserved many parks, woods, and wildlife refuges, making it a habitat for many different plant and animal species. What’s incredibly unique about Massachusetts is that the state has made measures to make sure that these sites are open to everyone, giving locals and visitors alike a distinctive and lively outdoor leisure experience.
Aside from being one of the greenest states, it’s also home to Boston, one of the best U.S. cities for ex-pats. Although this city has some problems with air pollution, Bostonians are working hard to find ways to fix this issue and make city life more eco-friendly.
5# Washington
Washington is known as the “Evergreen State” because of its expanses of fir and pine trees, but it’s also green because it ranks among the most environmentally friendly states in the U.S.A. It frequently competes with neighboring Oregon or northeastern Vermont for the top title.
It’s gotten this title because of its clear air initiatives and leading hydroelectric power initiatives. In 2020, hydroelectric power plants produced 66% of Washington’s electricity!
Finally, home vegetable gardening is really popular in this state, even in the cities. Of course, not everything can grow in Washington weather. But some cool-weather vegetables, like carrots, broccoli, and lettuce, do really well in this climate!
6# Oregon
Oregon ranks as one of the greenest states in the U.S. because of its natural beauty, which residents are motivated to preserve. One such natural beauty is Cannon Beach, located on the northern Oregon Coast. Moreover, much like Vermont and Washington, this state has a considerable proportion of energy consumption from renewable sources.
Oregon has also won the No. 8 ranking for fuel usage in gallons per capita and the percentage of recycled municipal solid waste as well, coming in eighth place for the number of LEED-certified buildings per capita.
If you’re considering moving to Oregon from another state, visit it first. You should always get to know the destination in person before deciding whether you want to move there. And, while Oregon is full of beautiful natural scenery, it’s got a specific climate to which some might have trouble getting used.
In Conclusion
The three states that have proven to be the greenest states in the U.S. are California, Vermont, and Washington. They’ve set an example for other states to follow. And it is an example that has to be taken seriously. As a result, other states are also joining in.
These states have invested in clean energy technologies, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, and adopted energy-saving regulations. They’ve also given particular attention to safeguarding and conserving their natural environments.
Finally, they proved that it is possible to contribute to the effort to combat climate change while upholding a robust economy.
Read Also:
- 5 Best Places To Live in Canada in 2023
- Top 10 Up And Coming Cities To Visit in South America
- Top 10 US Cities For Ex-pats
Author: Sophia Perry
