The Top 10 Green Cities in the U.S.: 2005

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Seattle, WA

Seattle (pop 563,374) keeps a spot on the greenest cities list with its mandate that the city's utility, Seattle City Light, meet growing demand with no net increase in greenhouse gases—achieved through self-generated wind energy thus far. This commitment to renewable energy offsets the city's problems with short-term small particle air pollution, for which it ranked twenty-second out of the ALA's top twenty-five most polluted metropolitan areas. Seattle's water quality ranked seventh out of 25 U.S. cities in Organic Style. Seattle devotes 11 percent of its city land to public parks, boasts 44 building projects registered for LEED certification, and requires all new city-funded buildings meet LEED standards. An extensive ferry system makes biking in the islands a breeze, the adjacent Cascade mountains offer excellent skiing, and nearby Mt. Rainier presents a challenge to mountaineers.

The Green Guide's runner ups include: Boston, with its extensive and popular public transit system, high percentage of parkland, and commitment to green building. Athens, Georgia, with a pedestrian- and bike-friendly downtown, many public parks and gardens, and demonstrated progressive urban planning. Lawrence, Kansas an affordable, bike-friendly city with 52 parks and a commitment to progressive and sustainable urban planning.

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