According to even the most conservative estimates, at least a quarter of the population of Britain is thinking about (even if not actually making steps towards) relocating to another place of residence. There are many factors that are to be taken into account when one is wondering whether a certain town is suitable for settling down in, such as:
- Property prices
- Employment opportunities
- Education
- Crime rates
- Recycling schemes and council rubbish removal services
There is another point which should also get close attention – how green is the town in question? What access to public green spaces are, what is the degree of pollution in the air and water and is the local government doing what is necessary in the line of environmental protection. Gathering all this information might turn out to be a rather laborious task, so in order to make thing easier for you we have taken the time to list some of the greenest towns and cities on the territory of England in the past several years.
Newcastle
Newcastle might not be the first city to come to mind when thinking about the greenest settlements in the country, but the solid fact is that both in 2014 and 2015 this former industrial centre topped the Forum for Future’s list of cleanest cities in UK. Carbon emissions here are significantly lower than those in other metropolises around the country, and recycling is a big thing in Newcastle too.
Leicester
There are two things that you should know about the city of Leicester. First, it is among the oldest ones on the territory of England, with well over 2000 years of history. Second, it offers one of the cleanest, greenest environments in the country as well. The Leicester market is one of the most famous open street markets around, offering a rich variety of groceries that are produced by local farmers. Not only that, but Leicester is significantly cheaper than other, larger cities in Britain, especially London. The average price of a house here is well within the range of 140 000 pounds.
Brighton
It is no surprise that Brighton makes our list. It has always been known for being one of the greenest and most eco-friendly cities in Great Britain. Even though the carbon footprint here is somewhat higher than the average for the country, there are many new businesses here that embrace the low-emission philosophy and even this otherwise serious problem is soon to be fixed.
Leeds
The last several years made Leeds, another big northern city, a leader in the eco-friendly lifestyle. A mix of conscious efforts by local administration and the attractiveness for Leeds for new, innovative businesses lies in the heart of the tendency, which is good news for everyone who lives and works here.
London
London might be the largest city in the country, but it also the most innovative one. Thus the capital, which is by the way known for being the greenest capital in the world, with over a quarter of its territory being covered by parks and other green spaces, has its deserved place on our list.
