When planning a vacation, we usually focus on things like plane tickets, comfortable hotels, or a list of must-visit attractions. But have you ever considered one other crucial factor: the cleanliness of your destination?
It turns out, a clean environment can significantly enhance your travel experience. Imagine strolling through a city free of litter, with fresh air and spotless streets. That’s exactly what you’ll find in Singapore, a country that has just been named the world’s cleanest tourist city.
Expert Report
This recognition didn’t come from just any organization. It was Eagle Dumpster Rental, a U.S.-based waste management company, that compiled a global report on the cleanliness of tourist cities. They collected data from trusted sources such as Numbeo, Atlas D-Waste, and local references from each city.
The evaluation was based on various indicators, including:
- Street cleanliness
- The effectiveness of waste management systems
- Public perception of cleanliness
- And the amount of waste generated per capita
Each city was given a unique score called the Street Cleanliness Score. Among all major tourist destinations worldwide, Singapore emerged at the very top.
Why Is Singapore the Cleanest?
Singapore is no ordinary city. With a population of over 6 million, this small country has an extraordinary approach to cleanliness.
Since the era of Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew in the 1960s, the Clean and Green program has been a cornerstone of the country’s environmental policy. This wasn’t just a temporary campaign, it became a long-term strategy that touches on many aspects, from public education to law enforcement.
Key Factors That Set Singapore Apart
- Strict cleanliness laws: Littering in Singapore comes with serious consequences. First-time offenders can be fined up to S$1,000, while repeat violators face fines of S$2,000 plus mandatory community service.
- Chewing gum ban: Yes, you read that right. Chewing gum can lead to hefty fines if disposed of improperly, and importing it can result in penalties of up to S$10,000.
- Advanced waste management technology: One of Singapore’s innovations is the NEWater system, which recycles wastewater into clean, drinkable water.
- Futuristic green spaces: From vertical gardens to iconic structures like the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, every element is designed to create a lush, orderly urban environment.
It’s no wonder both tourists and locals feel at ease walking around the city. Trash bins are readily available, anti-littering signs are clearly displayed, and the public transport system is highly efficient and clean.
Not Alone: Singapore's Global Competitors
While Singapore holds the top spot, several other cities around the world also deserve recognition for their commitment to cleanliness and effective waste management.
In second place is Copenhagen, Denmark, where residents express high satisfaction with their city's cleanliness. Copenhagen is a pioneer in sustainable waste management, utilizing circular economy principles and cutting-edge waste-to-energy technology that transforms trash into power.
Coming in third is Prague, Czech Republic, a city with one of the lowest waste generation rates in Europe, just around 676 pounds or 306 kilograms per capita annually. Its residents also report positive perceptions of cleanliness, making Prague one of the cleanest cities in Europe.
Cleanliness as a Tourism Magnet
In the end, street cleanliness isn’t just about aesthetics, it has a profound impact on a traveler’s overall experience. Dirty streets can pose health risks and damage a city's image.
Singapore proves that with structured systems, the right technology, and strong public awareness, a city can become an enjoyable place to both visit and live in.
So, if you're looking for a destination that's not only beautiful but also exceptionally clean, Singapore undoubtedly deserves a top spot on your travel list.
