How happy is the planet?

The Happy Planet Index measures what matters: sustainable wellbeing for all. It tells us how well nations are doing at achieving long, happy, sustainable lives.

Is it possible to live good lives without costing the Earth?

Yes, it is! In 2019, only 27% of countries consumed within environmental limits. Learn about the countries which prove there are more environmentally ‘efficient’ ways to create long and happy lives.

Happy Planet Index now managed and developed by the Hot or Cool Institute

As of the UN International Day of Happiness (20th March) 2023, the Happy Planet Index is now being managed and developed by the Hot or Cool Institute. Hot or Cool is a public interest think tank that explores the intersection between society and sustainability.  It is driven by the three key principles: Well-being and prosperity; Fairness and justice; Living within ecological limits

Is everything getting better?

Until recently, we have lived with the widespread belief that the world is steadily becoming a better place. How happy is the planet – pre and post pandemic?

See the trends over time
Time trend graph

Good lives shouldn’t cost the earth

As part of TED 2010, Happy Planet Index founder Nic Marks explains why and how the Happy Planet Index was started, and why we need it now more than ever.

How sustainably happy are you?

We believe that being happy is good for everyone and that promoting human happiness does not need to be at odds with creating a sustainable future. We've built this personal Happy Planet Index test to help you reflect on how you can create your own "good life that doesn't cost the earth".

Take the test

About the Happy Planet Index

How is the Happy Planet Index calculated?

The Happy Planet Index combines three elements to show how efficiently residents of different countries are using environmental resources to lead long, happy lives.

Why do we need the Happy Planet Index?

The Happy Planet Index provides a compass to guide nations towards genuine progress, and shows that it is possible to live good lives without costing the Earth.

Who is behind the Happy Planet Index?

The Happy Planet Index is powered by a group of collaborators who believe that the twenty-first century should be defined by the pursuit of good lives that do not cost the Earth.

How do we move towards 'sustainable wellbeing'?

Times of crisis are times of opportunity. Now is the time for societies around the world to speak out for a happier planet, to identify a new vision of progress, and to demand new tools to help us work towards it.

Share the Happy Planet Index

Use our promotion pack to start the conversation: “How can we live good lives that don’t cost the Earth?”

Happy Planet Index promotion pack

Read stories from a happy planet