On Thursday, researchers from the University of Zurich and Federal Materials Testing Lab (Empa) presented the results of their study to the parliament.
They found that the expansion of the 5G network in Switzerland up to 2030 would release an additional 0.18 mega tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere. In return, new applications made possible by 5G have the potential to lower CO2 emissions by 2.1 mega tonnes, mainly through boosting energy efficiency.
“The 5G network in 2030 should cause around 85% fewer emissions per unit of data transported than today’s mobile phone network. In addition, there are indirect savings from new uses, such as smart grids or new applications in agriculture with more targeted use of fertilisers and pesticides,” said an official statement released on Thursday.
The study’s authors also point out that because 5G supports faster and larger transmission of data, it can better support flexible or remote working arrangements, which in turn reduces emissions generated by commuter traffic. The researchers did not include the potential of 5G-enabled prospects like autonomous vehicles, tele-surgery or intelligent buildings, because they are unlikely to become mainstream by 2030.
The study was commissioned by the swisscleantech business association and mobile operator Swisscom.
Opposition movement
In Switzerland, telecoms operators are already rolling out the new 5G high-speed mobile technology. However, there has been certain resistance, especially in some French-speaking regions. In the face of public pressure, some Swiss cantons have introduced a moratorium on the construction of new 5G antennae. Opponents of the technology have also launched campaigns to force a nationwide vote on the issue. They have until the middle of next year to collect the 100,000 signatures needed.
Polish climber dies near Zermatt after falling into crevasse
This content was published on
A Polish mountaineer died on Sunday after falling into a crevasse on the Monte Rosa glacier in the Swiss resort of Zermatt.
This content was published on
Production in Switzerland's secondary sector fell in the second quarter of 2025. The decline was more pronounced in the construction sector than for industry.
Swiss army recruits remain in hospital after gruelling test exercise
This content was published on
Four potential recruits for the elite Swiss grenadier unit were hospitalised last week after taking part in a gruelling exercise in hot weather. Three remain in hospital with one placed temporarily in an artificial coma.
University of Basel to mark 125th anniversary of Nietzsche’s death
This content was published on
This month the University of Basel is celebrating the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who was a professor there from 1869 to 1879. August 25th marks the 125th anniversary of his death.
Trump tariffs: Swiss brands struggle to adapt to 39% tariff
This content was published on
Swiss brands like Victorinox, the manufacturer of the iconic pocket knife, are struggling to adapt to the 39% tariff imposed by the United States on imports of Swiss goods.
Fish and aquatic plants are under ‘severe pressure’ in Swiss rivers and lakes
This content was published on
Fish, aquatic plants and other animals in Swiss rivers, lakes and streams remain under 'severe pressure', according to the Federal Office for the Environment.
Swatch withdraws ‘slanted eyes’ ad after China uproar
This content was published on
The Swiss watch manufacturer Swatch has apologised and withdrawn an advertising campaign worldwide following accusations of racism in China. The ad features a model pulling the corners of his eyes.
Police identify bodies of three climbers who died in Swiss Alps
This content was published on
Police have formally identified the bodies of three climbers who died in the Upper Valais region in early August: they are from Germany, France and Austria.
Bern exhibition reunites Kirchner paintings after 92 years
This content was published on
The painting Sonntag der Bergbauern (Alpsonntag) [Sunday of the Mountain Farmers (Alp Sunday) by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1880-1938) is being transferred from Berlin to Bern to feature in an upcoming exhibition at Kunstmuseum Bern.
Voters approve extension of Engadine Airport in Switzerland
This content was published on
Residents in the Upper Engadine region gave the greenlight on Sunday to the expansion of the regional airport at Samedan, one of Europe’s highest airports (1,707 metres) that serves the nearby resorts of St Moritz and Davos.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Initiative aims to overcome Swiss public’s 5G technology misconceptions
This content was published on
Supporters of 5G mobile technology have launched a special platform to engage in discussions with the general public about their concerns.
This content was published on
As authorities, telecoms companies, and experts struggle to communicate the dangers and merits of 5G, Swiss voters might end up having the last word – even if the issue might seem more technical than politcal.
This content was published on
A much-awaited expert report on 5G has proven inconclusive, putting the ball back in the court of the federal government and cantons.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.