The average CO2 emissions of new cars in Switzerland fell more than 10% last year to 123.6 grams per kilometre - but still missed a target of 95g/km.
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This is despite CHF132.5 million ($143 million) in financial penalties being levied on passenger car importers in 2020. That was well over the CHF78.1 million imposed in 2019.
Importers of commercial vans and lorries were hit with another CHF15.7 million in sanctions as emissions from this category of vehicle dropped slightly to 176.4g/km – some way short of the 147g/km target set in 2020 by the government.
Some 238,000 new passenger cars were registered in Switzerland last year, around a quarter less than in 2019. The proportion of electric cars (battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids) increased significantly in 2020 to 14.4% (2019: 5.6%). The share of diesel vehicles fell slightly to 23.9%.
The coronavirus pandemic was responsible for much of the decrease in car registrations as people faced economic uncertainty and were restricted from travelling during lockdowns.
Switzerland wants to become carbon neutral by 2050. Transport plays a key role, as it is responsible for one-third of CO2 emissions – more than any other sector.
Swiss foreign minister praises improved relations with Italy
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Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis expressed his satisfaction on Tuesday with the good relations that Switzerland has developed with Italy.
Boating and swimming to be banned on part of River Aare in Bern
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From September, the city and canton of Bern will be carrying out extensive construction work on the River Aare to protect against flooding and to renovate the Marzili outdoor pool.
Moutier: foreigners familiarise themselves with right to vote
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From 2026, Moutier will be part of the Swiss canton of Jura, gaining more than 1,000 new voters. On Monday around 50 people were informed about their new rights.
Switzerland ‘more than ready’ to host Ukraine summit
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Switzerland is more than ready to host a summit between Russia and Ukraine, says Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, highlighting Switzerland's expertise in this area.
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Every second aircraft at Zurich Airport took off late this summer. However, the situation has already improved significantly compared to last year.
Swiss union federation demands average wage increase of 2%
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The employees' umbrella organisation Travailsuisse is demanding an average wage increase of two percent for all employees in the coming year. This would cover the rising cost of living and make up for wage shortfalls in recent years.
‘Dr Pump’ sentenced for administering unauthorised substances
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A Bern Regional Court has found the Solothurn doctor known as "Dr Pump" guilty of offences against the Sports Promotion Law. The man had administered unauthorised substances to patients.
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Volunteering can have a positive effect on mental health. According to a survey conducted in Switzerland, Germany and Austria, people who volunteer for others also strengthen themselves.
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Twint is being used more and more frequently to make purchases at the till or transfer money to friends using a smartphone. By the middle of the year, the payment app already had more than six million users in Switzerland.
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The meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin should take place in Europe, according to French President Emmanuel Macron. He is calling for it to be held in Geneva.
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Swiss CO2 law defeated at the ballot box
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Swiss voters have rejected legislation at the heart of the country’s strategy to abide by the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
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.