Inhabitants of Brazil and India have the world’s most environmentally-sustainable lifestyle and Americans have the least, according to a new study tracking global attitudes towards consumption and the environment. The survey by the National Geographic Society establishes a “Greendex” - an index measuring the economic impact of consumer lifestyle choices - in four key areas: housing, transportation, food and goods. Researchers noted that the lifestyles of people in developing countries tend to have fewer adverse effects on the environment than people in developed countries. Inhabitants of developing countries are more likely to live in smaller homes, own relatively few appliances, and walk, cycle or use public transportation. However, the index rankings could change as growing economic prosperity allows consumers to spend more.
Below are the fourteen nations surveyed in order of how “green” they are:
1. Brazilians
2. India
3. Chinese
4. Mexicans
5. Hungarians
6. Russians
7. British
8. Germans
9. Australians
10. Spanish
11. Japanese
12. French
13.Canadians
14. Americans
The study suggested that people can lower their “Greendex” by eating less meat and drinking less bottled water; ensuring their houses are energy efficient and keeping the heat and air conditioning at lower settings; owning less televisions and computers; and driving less and using more mass transit.
Sources:
Brazil, India have 'greenest' lifestyle, US trails | CorporateResponsibility.Net
Americans least environmental, according to a new survey