Top 10 Greenest Cities in Canada (2024)
As 2024 approaches and a record number of Montrealers face financial insecurities, our Mayor keeps spending money on ‘Bike Lanes!’. So, that got me to wondering: how ‘Green’ is Montreal, anyways?
Well, a recent study took aim to determine what exactly the answer to that question was and their findings were rather surprising. Of the 29 Canadian cities that they studied, Montreal came in 24th.
For all the money that Montreal has spent on Green initiatives, you’d figure we’d be higher on the list – but we’re not.
Various cities with wide-ranging differences in populations were researched and ranked in the study but for this article, I’ve narrowed the list down to the Top 10 ‘Greenest’ Canadian cities with a population base of over 450,000 people..
Wouldn’t be fair to rank major metropolis like Toronto or Montreal with Lethbridge, Alberta – though beautiful in its own right – has 1/10 the population.
The research-study used a 10-point system to rank 29 cities based on metrics such as walkability, parks, green spaces, hiking trails and air quality, among others, compared to its population.
“The various metrics compiled together in this data can show Canadians which location it may be easier for them to commit to a green lifestyle: for example, pedestrian-friendly and cycle-friendly cities can help Canadians interested in reducing their carbon footprint.” ~ Greater Toronto Home Pros
1. Halifax, NS
Halifax, prioritizes green-friendly initiatives, including green spaces, sustainable transportation, climate action, and programs that encourage eco-friendly practices among residents and businesses.
These efforts collectively contribute to Halifax’s reputation as a green-friendly city and help it to rank as Canada’s #1 Greenest city to live in.
GREEN RANKING: 58.85Population: 450,000
Walkability Score: 79
Public Transit: 73
Bike Score: 65
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 13.01
2. Vancouver, BC
Vancouver’s commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, green infrastructure, and community engagement has earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most environmentally friendly cities
Vancouver sources over 95% of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily hydroelectric power.
Vancouver has implemented the Greenest City Action Plan, aimed at achieving ambitious sustainability goals, including reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and enhancing green spaces.
GREEN RANKING: 54.45Population: 662,248
Walkability Score: 80
Public Transit: 74
Bike Score: 79
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 1.76
3. Quebec City, QC
Overall, Quebec City’s commitment to ecotourism, sustainability, and eco-conscious practices make it a green-friendly destination for both residents and visitors.
The city’s historic cobblestone streets reduce the need for modern transportation, offering a charming and environmentally friendly atmosphere that’s reminiscent of Europe.
The city’s commitment to environmental issues is evident in its efforts to address climate change, making it a leader in sustainable and green initiatives.
GREEN RANKING: 47.95Population: 549,459
Walkability Score: 45
Public Transit: 47
Bike Score: 59
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 7.66
4. Calgary, AB
Calgary’s commitment to green building, environmental strategies, sustainable neighborhoods, and eco-conscious living makes it a green-friendly city with a focus on preserving the environment and reducing its carbon footprint.
The city features eco-friendly neighborhoods like Echo Haven, which preserves a significant portion of its natural environment and promotes sustainable living through green homes
Residents are encouraged to adopt green living practices, such as using environmentally friendly transportation, recycling, donating unwanted items, and shopping at eco-friendly stores
GREEN RANKING: 45.75Population: 1,306,784
Walkability Score: 39
Public Transit: 50
Bike Score: 50
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 6.65
5. Surrey, BC
Surrey’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, from natural resource preservation to green business practices and residential initiatives, contributes to its reputation as a green-friendly city.
Surrey City Council is committed to expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, making it easier for residents to adopt eco-friendly transportation options
Surrey City Council has approved a Climate Change Action Strategy, demonstrating its commitment to addressing climate change and reducing environmental impact
GREEN RANKING: 42.74Population: 568,322
Walkability Score: 46
Public Transit: 47
Bike Score: 56
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 5.17
6. Winnipeg, MB
Winnipeg’s commitment to green initiatives, sustainable planning, and a growing eco-friendly business sector all contribute to its status as a green-friendly city.
The city is revitalizing downtown areas by incorporating elements of green infrastructure, such as green spaces and natural features, enhancing the overall green-friendliness of public spaces.
The city integrates sustainability into decision-making, considering environmental, social, and economic factors to create a more balanced and eco-conscious approach to development.
GREEN RANKING: 41.51Population: 749,607
Walkability Score: 48
Public Transit: 51
Bike Score: 61
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 4.69
7. Mississauga, ON
Mississauga’s commitment to green standards, energy efficiency, and sustainable development showcases its dedication to being green-friendly and environmentally conscious.
Mississauga is the first Canadian city to receive the ISO 50001 certification for energy management. This certification demonstrates the city’s commitment to reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency.
There are plans to create eco-friendly communities, such as Brightwater, on Lake Ontario with green buildings and parklike settings, emphasizing sustainable development.
GREEN RANKING: 40.86Population: 717,961
Walkability Score: 49
Public Transit: 56
Bike Score: 54
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 4.11
8. Edmonton, AB
Edmonton’s green-friendly initiatives encompass environmental policies, sustainable developments, and community engagement, making it a city that actively strives for a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future.
The city is home to sustainable developments like Blatchford, a live-work community that uses 100% renewable energy and aims to be carbon neutral, demonstrating Edmonton’s commitment to eco-friendly urban planning.
The City of Edmonton has implemented “The Way We Green,” an environmental strategy that addresses various challenges, including promoting a Food Charter, a Food Policy Council, and a Food Resiliency Strategy.
GREEN RANKING: 40.37Population: 1,010,899
Walkability Score: 40
Public Transit: 49
Bike Score: 40
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 6.04
9. Toronto, ON
By North American standards, Toronto is an exceptionally green city.
Toronto has implemented a Green Roof Bylaw that encourages the installation of green roofs, which helps reduce heat islands, conserve energy, and improve air quality.
Toronto places a strong emphasis on green building practices, with a significant percentage of green buildings in the city, contributing to energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
GREEN RANKING: 39.42Population: 2,794,356
Walkability Score: 61
Public Transit: 78
Bike Score: 61
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 2.89
10. Brampton, ON
Brampton’s green-friendliness is evident through its comprehensive environmental master plan, the focus on green spaces, ongoing eco-friendly initiatives, and recognition for its environmental efforts.
The city has a comprehensive Environmental Master Plan (EMP) known as “Brampton Grow Green.” This plan covers core components like People, Air, Water, Land, Energy, and Waste, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of environmental sustainability.
Brampton focuses on greenifying its parks and green spaces. These areas play a significant role in fighting climate change and enhancing the city’s overall green profile.
GREEN RANKING: 39.09Population: 656,480
Walkability Score: 43
Public Transit: 53
Bike Score: 55
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 5.74
So where does that leave Montreal?
Well, of ALL Canadian cities w/ a population of over 450,000 people, Montreal comes in dead last.
All is not doom & gloom though as this ranking is strictly Canadian-specific and Canadians – per capita – tend to be very eco-conscious. Montreal is still a highly eco-friendly sustainable metropolis when compared to other large cities throughout the world, so, when it comes to an eco-friendly society, we have a lot to be proud of and still a lot more to do.
Montreal, QC
Montreal’s dedication to sustainability, green infrastructure, and eco-friendly initiatives make it a green-friendly destination for both residents and visitors.
The city has a comprehensive Sustainable Montreal Plan that serves as a framework for citizens, local businesses, and partner organizations to work together towards long-term sustainability goals.
Iconic locations like Parc Jean-Drapeau are undergoing eco-friendly renovations, including riverside promenades and green spaces.
GREEN RANKING: 36.70Population: 1,762,949
Walkability Score: 65
Public Transit: 67
Bike Score: 73
Parks & Green Space (per 1k pop): 3.66
