2: Switzerland
Switzerland ranks #2 due to its pristine natural water sources and rigorous water quality standards. Almost 100% of the population has access to safely managed drinking water services. The country’s water comes from lakes, rivers, and underground sources, all of which are carefully protected and monitored. Swiss authorities ensure that tap water meets the highest safety standards. With a score of 100 on the Yale Environmental Performance Index, Switzerland’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world, basically tying with our number one. The country’s government invests heavily in water infrastructure, keeping it modern and reliable. Swiss tap water is so clean that it’s often considered better than bottled alternatives. Public trust in tap water is high, making Switzerland a model for water management.