Why being ranked the cleanest city in the world matters

Sure, we could shout it from the rooftops, but in classic Finnish style, we just keep quiet and carry on. Still, being named the cleanest city isn’t about bragging—it’s proof that a modern city can look after both its people and the planet. This recognition is just one example: Helsinki was also crowned the most sustainable travel destination in 2024 by the Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index. For us, these titles aren’t endpoints; they’re happy byproducts of a city built on long-term vision, thoughtful planning, and everyday care.

Cleaner streets, fresh air, and crystal-clear water show what’s possible when cities focus on thoughtful planning and everyday care.

How did Helsinki earn its cleanest city status?

Helsinki didn’t get spotless by accident. It took bold ideas, careful design, and a community that doesn’t just care but acts. Let’s break it down:

First up—air quality. Measured on the Air Quality Index (AQI), where anything under 50 means breathing easy—Helsinki scores a cool 20. That’s no small feat for a city this size. It’s not just luck, either. Policies that prioritise public transport and cut emissions play a huge role. Curious about why Helsinki’s air is so clean? It’s all in the city’s  Air Quality and Noise Abatement Plan, which sets ambitious goals—and delivers.

Next—water. Ever wondered, “Is the water drinkable in Finland?” Absolutely. And Helsinki has some of the cleanest water in Finland. It’s drawn from protected groundwater reserves and delivered straight to your tap, filter-free. So, if you’re tempted to buy bottled water here, don’t be surprised if someone kindly suggests, “Just try the tap.”

Waste management? We’re on it. Over 50% of household waste gets recycled, and biowaste is turned into biogas that powers public transport. Even non-recyclables don’t go to waste—they’re converted into energy. Thanks to Helsinki clean energy initiatives, the city stays clean and landfill-free. And with easy-to-use recycling stations (“Sortti Stations”), everyone can pitch in without a hassle.
And those green spaces? They’re more than eye candy. Nearly 40% of Helsinki is covered in parks, forests, and natural areas. These green lungs do more than purify air—they offer peaceful retreats and provide homes for local wildlife. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park or gazing at Töölönlahti’s shimmering waters, it’s clear that sustainability here is as beautiful as it is practical.

Why is Helsinki sustainable?

Here, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s how the city moves, breathes, and grows. That dedication earned Helsinki the title of the world’s most sustainable travel destination in 2024, according to the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS). Beating Gothenburg by a hair, this wasn’t a fluke—it was thanks to years of eco-friendly action. 

So, what’s behind the win? Let’s talk about transport. Much of Helsinki’s public transport runs on renewable energy. Buses powered by biogas (made from food scraps!) are a common sight. Plus, the city’s compact design makes walking and cycling easy—nearly half of all trips are taken on foot or bike. The result? Fewer cars, cleaner air, and quieter streets.

And those green spaces? With 23,000 acres of parks and forests per 100,000 residents, Helsinki blends urban life with nature in a way few cities can. These spaces help manage stormwater, regulate temperatures, and—let’s be honest—look stunning year-round. It’s yet another reason Helsinki is an eco-friendly city.

The role of the community

What’s Helsinki’s real secret? Its people. Every spring, when the snow melts and forgotten litter reappears, Helsinkians take action. Armed with gloves and trash bags (supplied by the city), locals head to parks, beaches, and streets to clean up together. It’s not just about keeping things tidy; it’s about showing pride in their city.

And getting involved couldn’t be easier. Need supplies? The city’s got you covered. Finished collecting? They’ll take care of the disposal. This seamless system runs on trust, and the results speak for themselves: a city that looks—and feels—clean, thanks to everyone’s efforts.
Want to pitch in? Here’s how to organize your own clean-up event and be part of the action.

Experience the cleanest city in the world for yourself

Helsinki isn’t just a clean clean—it’s living proof that sustainability initiatives in Finland can lead to happier, healthier lives. Here, fresh air and green spaces aren’t luxuries—they’re everyday essentials.

Come for the clean streets, fresh air, and lush parks, and stay for the feeling of being in a place where eco-friendly living doesn’t feel like a chore. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or thinking of moving here, you’ll leave inspired by a city that proves Europe’s sustainable tourism destinations can be exciting, welcoming, and incredibly livable.

Helsinki is waiting. Ready to experience clean living at its best?