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.
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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.
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Swiss climate strategy to be decided at the ballot box
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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.
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Every Swiss citizen has a Heimatort, a place of origin, but many have never visited theirs. What’s your relationship with your Heimatort? What does it mean to you?
Lufthansa set to abolish in-flight sales, SWISS to keep them
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Perfumes, cigarettes, sunglasses: The German airline Lufthansa will no longer sell these products on long-haul flights in future. Lufthansa subsidiary Swiss is sticking to in-flight sales for the time being.
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After a short break due to the cool weather, grass pollen is now flying in Switzerland, the Swiss Allergy Centre said on Monday.
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Researchers have shown for the first time in Switzerland that urban greenery measurably reduces the stress levels of city dwellers.
US tariffs affect canton Zurich less than other locations
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The Zurich cantonal government is observing the developments surrounding the US tariffs "with concern". Compared to other locations, however, Zurich should get off lightly.
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The Alpine Museum in Bern is showing the finds of diver David Godio, who has been fishing lost objects out of the River Aare for years.
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Healthcare costs in Switzerland rose by 2.4% in 2023. The Swiss healthcare system thus cost around CHF94 billion ($113 billion).
Karaoke tram to run through Basel during Eurovision
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A karaoke tram will be doing the rounds in Basel during the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC). During a 90-minute journey, guests can sing and dance for free in a vintage car.
Net wealth of Swiss households rises to CHF4.8 trillion
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Private household assets in Switzerland continued to grow strongly in 2024. The increase was driven by both the growth in financial assets and higher property assets.
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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.
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