Leading the Way: The 20 Best Sustainable Cities in the World
Introduction:
In an era marked by environmental challenges and the urgent need for sustainability, cities around the world are stepping up to the plate and embracing innovative solutions to create a better future.
From reducing carbon emissions to promoting renewable energy, these cities are making significant strides towards sustainability and becoming global leaders in sustainable urban development.
In this article, we present a list of the 20 best sustainable cities in the world, showcasing their exceptional efforts and highlighting the key factors that have propelled them to the forefront of sustainable urban living.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen has earned its reputation as a sustainable city with its ambitious carbon-neutrality targets, extensive cycling infrastructure, and commitment to renewable energy sources.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its high percentage of renewable energy usage, efficient waste management systems, and circular economy initiatives.
3. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm combines environmental consciousness with innovation, focusing on renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and smart city solutions.
4. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver excels in green building practices, urban planning, and its commitment to becoming one of the world’s greenest cities by 2020.
5. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki emphasizes sustainable urban development through energy-efficient buildings, integrated public transportation systems, and green spaces for all residents.
6. Oslo, Norway
Oslo leads the way in sustainable transportation, boasting a robust network of electric buses, trams, and a goal to make the city car-free by 2030.
7. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich stands out with its comprehensive waste management systems, renewable energy initiatives, and a focus on fostering a high quality of life for its residents.
8. Singapore
Singapore is renowned for its sustainable urban planning, efficient public transportation, and innovative approaches to water and waste management.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik sets an example with its extensive use of geothermal energy, a commitment to carbon neutrality, and sustainability-driven policies.
10. San Francisco, United States
San Francisco leads the way in eco-conscious initiatives, including renewable energy programs, zero waste goals, and support for electric vehicles.
11. Curitiba, Brazil
Curitiba prioritizes sustainable urban planning, efficient public transportation systems, and innovative waste management strategies.
12. Portland, United States
Portland excels in sustainable transportation, promoting cycling and walking, and implementing progressive environmental policies.
13. Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington showcases its commitment to sustainability through renewable energy projects, carbon neutrality goals, and an active focus on protecting its natural environment.
14. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona embraces sustainable architecture, renewable energy adoption, and pedestrian-friendly urban design to create a vibrant and eco-friendly city.
15. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo sets an example with its energy-efficient buildings, advanced waste management systems, and dedication to creating a sustainable and resilient city.
16. Munich, Germany
Munich excels in renewable energy implementation, green spaces preservation, and a focus on sustainable mobility options.
17. Freiburg, Germany
Freiburg, a picturesque city located in Germany’s southwest, has earned international recognition for its remarkable commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices.
18. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne stands out with its commitment to sustainable living, focusing on renewable energy, green spaces, and water conservation.
19. Vienna, Austria
Vienna showcases its dedication to sustainability through energy-efficient buildings, comprehensive public transportation networks, and renewable energy projects.
20. Songdo, South Korea
Songdo represent South korea sustainability efforts include eco-friendly urban planning, green spaces development, and a strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
KPI for The 20 Best Sustainable Cities in the World
In assessing the success and progress of sustainable cities, several key performance indicators (KPIs) are commonly used to measure their sustainability performance.
These KPIs provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives and help guide cities towards their sustainability goals.
Here are some essential KPIs used to evaluate the sustainability of cities:
1. Carbon footprint
Measuring the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by a city provides a clear indication of its contribution to climate change. Cities that actively work towards reducing their carbon footprint through energy-efficient practices and the use of renewable energy sources demonstrate their commitment to combatting climate change.
2. Renewable energy usage
Tracking the percentage of renewable energy used by a city highlights its progress in transitioning to clean and sustainable energy sources. Cities that prioritize renewable energy adoption, such as solar, wind, and geothermal, contribute significantly to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Green space and biodiversity
Evaluating the amount and quality of green spaces, parks, and preserved natural areas within a city helps assess its efforts in enhancing biodiversity and promoting ecological balance. Cities that prioritize the preservation of green spaces provide their residents with improved air quality, recreational areas, and opportunities for connecting with nature.
4. Sustainable transportation
Assessing the usage of sustainable transportation modes, such as cycling, walking, and public transit, helps gauge a city’s commitment to reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and promoting healthier lifestyles. Increased usage of sustainable transportation options indicates a city’s progress in providing efficient and eco-friendly mobility solutions.
5. Waste management
Tracking waste generation, recycling rates, and waste diversion from landfills provides insights into a city’s waste management practices. Cities that implement comprehensive recycling programs, promote waste reduction, and adopt circular economy principles contribute to resource conservation and the minimization of landfill waste.
6. Energy efficiency in buildings
Evaluating the energy efficiency of buildings through certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) helps measure a city’s commitment to sustainable construction and energy-saving practices.
7. Social equity and inclusivity
Measuring the inclusivity and accessibility of services, infrastructure, and opportunities within a city helps determine its efforts in promoting social equity. Cities that prioritize affordable housing, education, healthcare, and community engagement initiatives foster an environment of inclusivity and well-being for all residents.
8. Water conservation and management
Assessing a city’s water usage, conservation efforts, and water management practices provides insights into its commitment to preserving this vital resource. Cities that implement water-efficient infrastructure, promote water conservation practices, and invest in water reuse systems contribute to sustainable water management.
These KPIs, among others, assist in evaluating the sustainability performance of cities and tracking their progress over time. By regularly monitoring and improving upon these indicators, cities can effectively measure their sustainability efforts, identify areas for improvement, and work towards creating a more sustainable and livable future for their residents.
Conclusion for The 20 Best Sustainable Cities in the World
The pursuit of sustainable cities has become a global imperative, driven by the pressing need to address climate change, environmental degradation, and social equity.
The 20 best sustainable cities in the world serve as beacons of hope and inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of sustainable urban development.
Through their ambitious targets, innovative practices, and commitment to improving quality of life for their residents, these cities have set the standard for sustainability.
They have demonstrated that by integrating renewable energy, embracing green infrastructure, promoting sustainable transportation, and prioritizing social inclusivity, cities can thrive while minimizing their environmental impact.
As we look to the future, it is essential for cities worldwide to learn from the successes of these sustainable cities, adapt their strategies to local contexts, and work collectively towards building a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable urban future for generations to come.
https://www.exaputra.com/2023/05/the-20-best-sustainable-cities-in-world.html
Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.
Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.
However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.
But what are the main issues?
Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.
That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!
By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.
This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.
So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.
Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!
From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.
Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.
Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:
- In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs. - The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options. -
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.
Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path
It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.
So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:
Choosing the right system
For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:
- One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units
- One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and
- One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.
- Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.
However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.
Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater
As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.
This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.
Installation Process & Timing Period
- Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.
- The quote needs to be accepted and dated.
- Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance. - The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping. - The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.
- The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.
Choosing efficiency over just cooling
Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.
Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.
At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:
“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”
Out-of-pocket and rebate
Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.
In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.
The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.
So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.
How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?
The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.
Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.
So, to qualify under the VEU program:
- The property must be more than two years old.
- The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
- The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.
How the Rebate Works
In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.
After installation:
- The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
- They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
- The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.
The homeowner simply has to:
- Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
- Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.
The Result
The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.
Why is the VEU rebate significant?
Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:
On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.
Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.
Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.
Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!
Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.
Before Adding Air Conditioning System
- Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
- In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620. - In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300. - Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920
After Adding the Air Conditioning System
- Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
- During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.
Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.
- In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180. - So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.
Net Savings
Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.
At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.
However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.
This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.
Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program
Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.
- Don’t wait until your system dies.
Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.
- Choose a provider who handles the rebates.
Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.
- Understand the actual savings potential.
It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.
- Ensure proper sizing and zone control.
As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.
- Factor in non-energy benefits.
Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.
- Check the accreditation and compliance.
With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.
So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.
- Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.
This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.
- Monitor your bills after installation.
Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.
Be realistic about pay-back
Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).
However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.
Final Notes
This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.
This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.
The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.
This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:
- Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
- Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
- Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
- A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.
So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!
Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.
Your Solution Is Just a Click Away
The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.
About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.
“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.
Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.
If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.
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