I enjoyed reading the BBC Travel feature on the most sustainable small towns in the United States because it highlights how communities of all sizes are finding practical and creative ways to support both people and place. These towns demonstrate that sustainability is not a distant ideal but a set of lived practices that can shape local economies, protect natural resources, and enhance quality of life.
As someone who values sustainable growth, it was nice to see a town from my home state on the list. It's a reminder that even small towns, from small states, can make difference with a commitment to renewable energy goals, walkable streets, and connection to the surrounding environment.
Across the list, from vibrant farmers’ markets and community composting programs to renewable power initiatives and trail networks, these towns show that sustainability can be woven into everyday life without sacrificing cultural richness or visitor experience.
I see this collection of places as an invitation to think beyond major cities when we talk about sustainable growth. Small towns can be laboratories for resilient infrastructure, community engagement, and stewardship of the landscapes that define so much of the American experience.
When you picture a US getaway, it's easy to think big cities, national parks and marquee attractions. But some of the most rewarding American trips right now are happening far from the spotlight, in humble small towns effecting big change. Across the country, these communities are weaving sustainability into everyday life. Farmers supply restaurants with hyper-local and seasonal produce; composting programmes keep waste out of landfills; and shops and cultural hubs run on renewable energy. When you visit, you are rewarded with a sense of ease and a slower pace. You also help sustain a way of life rooted in care for the land and the people who call it home.
https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20260115-10-of-the-uss-most-sustainable-small-towns
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