National Geographic names Edinburgh one of Europe’s most ‘forward-thinking’ cities

The world culture magazine called Scotland’s capital one of “the continent’s leading lights”.

Edinburgh is among the most “innovative” and “green-minded” cities in Europe, according to National Geographic.

The city made the top five ranking, alongside Lyon in France, Budapest in Hungary, Lahti in Finland, and Lisbon in Portugal.

The magazine called Edinburgh “the greenest city in the UK”, highlighting research by recycling company First Mile, which examined air quality, recycling efficiency and green space in cities across the country.

Edinburgh has been named one of the most "forward-thinking" cities in Europe.

“It’s visible on the ground, too,” the article continues, “the Scottish capital has 112 parks, an extensive network of cycle paths and more trees per capita than anywhere else in the UK.”

Reacting to the praise, Edinburgh Council Leader Adam McVey said: “Edinburgh has always been a forward-thinking city and we take pride in our rich built and cultural heritage with a reputation for innovation and creativity, as recognised by National Geographic.

“With the most Green Flag parks in Scotland, a plan to become the country’s next Million Tree City and an ambitious Low Emission Zone scheme in development, we’re working hard to create a cleaner, greener and more liveable city for future generations.

“This, paired with pioneering plans to transform transport and mobility to prioritise cycling, walking and public transport as well as encouraging sustainable development and increased recycling rates across Edinburgh’s population, will be crucial to our ambition of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.”

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