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, and sustainable lives.

Image of the planet

Good lives don't have to cost the earth

“GDP forgot what it was for. It wasn’t about stability anymore, it was about something else. Growth? Power? But at what cost? And for whom?”

Watch the video to learn more.

Is everything getting better?

Until recently, we have lived with the widespread belief that the world is steadily becoming a better place. But how happy is the planet?

See the trends over time

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 a 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

Which countries have improved the most?

Who got more efficient at converting resources into happy lives?

See the latest data

About the Happy Planet Index

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.