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Green and Pleasant Lands
For the green-minded tourist there's nothing like scenic beauty plus a clear conscience. Two universities rank which holiday destinations are kind to Mother Nature
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Green and Pleasant Lands
By NICK EASEN
Posted Jul. 11, 2005 Fresh air, clear water, pristine surroundings—it's what every green-minded tourist dreams of. But how can you know for sure whether your potential holiday destination is kind to Mother Nature? Check out the Environmental Sustainability Index (www.yale.edu/esi) compiled by environmental experts at Yale and Columbia universities. The 2005 ESI ranks 146 countries based on 76 measures, such as forest cover and vehicle usage, and is grouped into 21 environmental indicators, such as biodiversity and air quality.
This year, Finland and Norway rank first and second, respectively: "They've put a great deal of time, energy and money into protecting open space and conserving their natural resources," says Daniel Esty, a Yale professor and ESI's creator. (If you're wondering who got the eco-booby prize, it's North Korea.)
"The ESI can help a discerning traveler find unexpected ecological treasures. The strong showing of Uruguay [No. 3], beautiful beaches and sprawling pampas, and Guyana [No. 8], unspoiled coast and vibrant jungle [Kaieteur Falls, pictured], might provide you with a surprise travel opportunity," says Esty. There's nothing like scenic beauty plus a clear conscience.
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