A report launched in Washington by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy on Thursday ranked the UK first among the world's 12 largest economies for reducing pollution in industry, transport, and buildings. The US was beaten by Germany and Italy, who occupied second and third place respectively, and even China, which is currently the world's biggest carbon polluter, according to the report quoted by " the guardian." China shared sixth place with the EU and Australia. Canada and Russia brought up the rear in 11th and 12th place. The UK energy secretary, Ed Davey, said he welcomed the recognition. "Energy efficiency sits at the heart of our policies to encourage low-carbon growth," he said in a statement.