10 of the US's most sustainable small towns - and why they're worth the trip

BBC • January 18, 2026 • nation

Key Points:

Small towns across the US are embracing sustainability by integrating local farming, composting, and renewable energy into daily life, offering visitors a slower, eco-conscious travel experience.
San Luis Obispo, California, features a pioneering anaerobic digestion facility converting organic waste to renewable power and hosts a large farmers' market, while nearby vineyards benefit from coastal conditions.
Missoula, Montana, combines outdoor activities with climate resilience initiatives like clean-air spaces, and Flagstaff, Arizona, is notable for its repair clinics, thrift stores, and status as the first International Dark Sky City.
Other towns like Hanover, New Hampshire, and Ithaca, New York, focus on renewable energy goals and carbon neutrality, with vibrant local markets and scenic natural