Swiss voters supported a new climate bill designed to cut fossil fuel use in a referendum.
59.1% of voters backed green energy proposals that will see their government required to reduce dependence on imported oil and gas. The proposed law voted on during the referendum instead mandates a move towards the use of renewable energy.
The government supported the proposed law, saying the country needed to protect its energy security. It also noted that glaciers in the Swiss Alps were rapidly melting, causing ski resorts and businesses in the Alps to have a shorter tourist season.
Switzerland imports around 75% of its energy, with all oil and natural gas coming from abroad.
The right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP) triggered the referendum, arguing that energy prices would skyrocket. Critics of the bill believed the proposals would push up energy bills.
Leading Swiss glaciologist Matthias Huss, who has closely followed the Swiss Alps glacier retreat, hailed the “strong signal” sent by Sunday’s vote, saying he was “very happy the arguments of climate science were heard”.
As governments turn their focus on Net Zero, is your business ready?
As voters around the world demand stronger legislation on the climate crisis, governments are doubling down on net zero actions.
This often means stronger legislation on businesses’ emissions, which often includes tougher penalties and stronger reporting requirements.
How can businesses think ahead?
At ClearVUE.Business, we make net zero compliance easy. Our industry-leading technology measures your emissions in real time and generates reports in a corporate format.
We also understand that many businesses fear net zero compliance will impact their operations drastically. Our sustainability experts work hand in hand with you to create net zero strategies that do not deter your businesses’ growth plans.
Get started for free: https://clearvue.business/request-demo/
