List of Top 10 Cleanest States in the U.S.

With environmental health becoming increasingly important in today's world, many of the states in the United States have embraced clean living. Described as having low pollution, high air quality, clean drinking water, and strong sustainability practices, these states are focused on improving the lives of their residents while also protecting its natural resources. While cleanliness is more than how clean a state looks, it involves how well a state can manage waste, reduce emissions, use renewable energy, and govern environmental regulations. 

The cleanest states in the United States have a reputation for implementing eco-friendly laws and policies, promoting public health, and for their overall quality of life. Whether located in rural areas or growing urban areas, these states are near the top of every ranking regarding life, livability, and environmental performance. If you are searching for fresh air, clean water, and a clean state that cares about green living, you're in luck - this list of the top 10 cleanest states in the United States will give you a good idea of where sustainable living really exists. This list is curated based on the latest data and statistics by World Population Review. 

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Top 10 Cleanest States in the U.S.

Here is a list of the top 10 cleanest states in the U.S.:

Here are the Top 5 Cleanest States, with an in depth explanation of what makes them the cleanest state in the U.S.

1. Hawaii

Hawaii is the cleanest state in the U.S. because of its extremely low air pollution, and it consistently ranks near the top for air quality. Hawaii's trade winds help to clear airborne pollution, and it has no reported violations in public drinking water systems. Hawaii's transition to renewable energy, particularly wind and solar energy, is leading the way for the U.S. in clean living. Hawaii's geography and low industrial activity help it retain a pristine environment. 

2. Vermont

Vermont is characterized as one of the cleanest places in the U.S., partly because it has low population density and, as a result, has very few traffic emissions and industrial waste. Vermont has among the strongest environmental regulations in the U.S, protecting air quality, providing clean waterways, and maintaining green spaces, along with very low pollution per capita in the U.S. Vermont is devoted to a sustainable future and protecting natural places.

3. New York

Despite its extremely large centers of population, a high level of cleanliness can be attributed to statewide environmental initiatives such as clean energy goals, water cleaning operations, and aggressive emission standards. New York City is also investing in public transit in order to lessen vehicular emissions, while the upstate part of the state has clean air and water as well. 

4. Maine

Maine belongs on this list because of its extremely clean air and water, which is enhanced by very low industrial activity and a great deal of preservation of forests and coastlines. Maine locations on the Atlantic also provide clean breezes from the ocean, and almost no urban sprawl means very little pollution. Maine has a focus on conservation, recycling programs, and great protection of natural resources extends its reputation for purity.

5. Maryland 

Maryland stands out for its environmental laws and standards. The state has adopted strong and actionable policies for stormwater management, greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and clean water programs, including for area waterways like the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland has made significant investments in renewable energy and initiatives around public education and awareness on sustainability. As a state that takes care of both its urban and suburban areas, it is by far one of the cleanest and most forward-thinking states in all of America.