This is according to the Global Footprint Network, an ecological think-tank based in the US, which calculates the dates at which national populations have consumed more resources than nature can regenerate in a single year.
The first country this year to overshoot the mark was Qatar, on February 9; Sao Tome and Principe is expected to reach its limit on December 27. By reaching its limit on May 11, Switzerland is within a week of Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and New Zealand reaching their overshoot day.
Last year, Switzerland’s day fell a bit earlier, on May 8. The Global Footprint Network said it was still too difficult to say whether or how much the Covid-19 pandemic, and related restrictions, played a part in this year’s results.
According to the study methodology, “the Ecological Footprint is derived by tracking how much biologically productive area it takes to provide for all the competing demands of people”. A country’s imports and exports are also factored into the final calculation.
More
Swiss CO2 emissions: Small country, big footprint
The much-lauded Swiss quality of life has a dark side – namely levels of consumerism and convenience that jack up the national carbon footprint.
The Network has not said when the global average overshoot day is set to fall in 2021. Last year, it was on August 22. The date has been creeping steadily backwards: in 1970 it fell in December but by 2000 it had regressed to September.
On June 13, Swiss voters will have their say on a new CO2 law ratified by parliament last year, which foresees various new rules on sustainability, including levies on fuel, taxes on airline tickets, and stricter standards for buildings.
The law, which is a key component of the country’s larger long-term climate strategy, was challenged to a referendum by an interparty committee representing economic sectors, including the petrol industry, transport and aviation, and construction.
Almost all political parties, as well as other segments of the economy, are in favour of the CO2 law, while initial polls have – so far – indicated broad public support.
More
More
Swiss climate strategy to be decided at the ballot box
This content was published on
On June 13, Swiss voters will have the last word on a key pillar of the country’s climate change strategy – the new CO2 law.
This content was published on
Nemo brought the Eurovision Song Contest to Switzerland with a victory on Saturday evening in Malmö, Sweden. It is Switzerland's third victory in the history of the music contest.
Switzerland abstains from vote on Palestinian bid for full UN membership
This content was published on
On Friday, Switzerland abstained from the vote at the General Assembly on granting the Palestinians new rights at the United Nations (UN).
Protein in abdominal fat could help shape obesity treatment
This content was published on
The study analysed fat cells from different locations in the body, and found that those in the abdomen have unique properties.
North African asylum claims fall after rapid Swiss processing
This content was published on
The accelerated procedure, now out of its test phase, has resulted in a significant drop in applications from North African countries.
This content was published on
The artist's song "The Code" focuses on their journey as a nonbinary individual. It is one of the favourites to win this year's contest.
This content was published on
Consumers spent 11.3% more on food and beverages in brick-and-mortar shops last year than they did in 2019, for a record food retail trade turnover.
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.