Sustainability & environment

Modest as we Swiss are, we rarely mention how sustainable our country actually is. Switzerland has a lot to show for it! Numerous rankings are proof of this. Switzerland regularly scores above average in international studies in terms of sustainability and quality of life. Being among the best in the world spurs us on to defend these ranks year after year – with success.

For flora and fauna

Nature reserves

Switzerland has numerous nature reserves. Nature reserves serve to protect particularly valuable areas for people and nature and are characterised by near-natural and diverse habitats. Examples include the Swiss National Park, biosphere reserves such as the Entlebuch Biosphere, water and migratory bird reserves such as the Grande Cariçaie and federal hunting ban areas such as the Aletsch Forest.

Swiss parks

The Swiss National Park is the oldest national park in the Alps and one of 20 Swiss parks of national importance. The Swiss parks support the preservation and enhancement of natural habitats and landscapes of particular beauty. The 20 Swiss parks cover a total of 5,839 square kilometres, which corresponds to 14 per cent of Switzerland's area.

Swiss Forests

Since 1876, the Forest Act has ensured that the area of Swiss forests does not decrease. Today, 31% of Switzerland is forested – and the trend is rising. Among other things, the trees protect against avalanches and have a CO2-reducing effect.

The blue gold

Switzerland holds about six percent of the continent's freshwater reserves and is considered the moated castle of Europe. Many large rivers such as the Rhone, Rhine, Ticino and Inn originate here. The many streams, rivers and lakes are not only very important for biodiversity, but also for tourism. What is unique is that even in the larger cities you can swim without hesitation. The protection of this precious resource is a high priority – so that future generations can also benefit from it.

Take a deep breath

Air quality in Switzerland has improved steadily over the last 30 years and is now good by international standards. Switzerland is one of the countries with the lowest concentrations of particulate matter in Europe. With measures for the consistent use of the best available technology in agriculture, transport, industry and heating, further progress towards clean and healthy air in Switzerland is possible in the future.

The power of nature

Renewable energies are on the rise in Switzerland. Around 56% of the electricity generated in Switzerland is generated from hydropower.

Switzerland as a Recycling Nation

Mr and Mrs Swiss are world champions when it comes to recycling: 95% of waste glass and just under 85% PET do not end up in the usual household waste, but in special collection points. The containers are recycled and given a second life. In addition, Switzerland is one of the European leaders in consistent recycling and has an exemplary waste disposal system,

Low-emission mobility

Switzerland is the country of environmentally conscious activities. People travel by public transport and low-emission activities such as hiking and cycling are clearly in the foreground.

Travelling through Switzerland by public transport

The rail network is around 7,900 km long. Almost 10,000 passenger trains travel on it every day, transporting more than 1.32 million passengers per day. With one of the densest rail networks in the world, even the most remote places can be reached by public transport.

SwitzerlandMobility promotes non-motorised traffic

SwitzerlandMobility is a free platform for active leisure activities. Whether hiking, cycling, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing – the offer consists of a network of routes that are uniformly signposted throughout the country, perfectly coordinated with public transport.