From Auld Reekie to Greenest City in the U.K.

Due to its reputation, Edinburgh was given the moniker Auld Reekie, which translates to "Old Smokey," in the 17th century. Although this moniker may not have been desired, it was absolutely appropriate. Poor air quality prevailed as a heavy fog blanketed the city. This resulted from coal being burned for the fire in its heavily populated center.

In addition to the fog, Nor Loch was also filled with an offensive odor (the lake that used to border the city). Although it didn't always emit foul odors, it had evolved into a graveyard for dead people and trash over time.

A few centuries later, Edinburgh, Scotland, completely changed the course of history. It's current ranking as the UK's greenest city stands in stark contrast to its previous reputation for filth and stench. It is the best city since it has the least pollution and the most open area (112 parks). What irony!