Spain Ranks Seventh Among Happiest Countries in terms of Sustainable Well-being
In a recent report by the Hot or Cool Institute, Spain has been ranked as the seventh happiest country in the world in terms of sustainable well-being. The Happy Planet Index, now in its seventh edition, ranked Spain behind Vanuatu, Sweden, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua, tied with Denmark.
The report highlights that a higher level of consumption does not necessarily equate to a higher level of well-being. Excessive consumption not only harms the planet but also does not seem to improve people’s overall happiness.
According to the study, living well and healthily does not have to come at the expense of the planet. The report analyzed how countries around the world prioritize the health and well-being of their citizens while also respecting the environment.
The ranking, which includes 147 countries, is based on three key parameters: life expectancy, well-being, and carbon footprint. While no country received a perfect score on all three components, some countries came close. Spain scored above average in life expectancy and well-being but below average in carbon footprint.
Interestingly, the report also found that having a higher GDP does not necessarily lead to well-being within ecological limits. Six out of the top 10 countries with the highest GDP per capita scored below average on the Happy Planet Index.
The Happy Planet Index serves as a reminder that true well-being involves more than just economic prosperity. Social and environmental well-being are equally important for long-term stability and happiness.