Measures to counteract climate change

According to different scenarios, an increase of between 1.1 and 6.4 °C may be expected in the mean global temperature by the end of the 21^st century. The extend of the warming will also depend on future economic and social development: our activities determine the volume of greenhouse gas emissions and, hence also, the expected changes in the climate system and their consequences (OcCC, 2008)

Personal measures

In order to be able to reduce per capita greenhouse gas emissions sustainably, modern humans must change their everyday patterns of behaviour. A helpful list of simple tips on climate-friendly behaviour is provided here.

Social and political measures

Technologies and options for reducing CO₂ emissions are already available today or will be available in the near future. According to the report of the Swiss Adivsory Body on Climate Change (OcCC), in addition to increases in efficiency, the achievement of a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions also requires the use of renewable energy sources, the protection of natural resources, the introduction of political and economic incentive systems and the application of strict standards and laws.

The latest information on the topic of climate and Swiss climate policy can be found here.

Different potential for reduction

Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can be achieved in different areas in a society (e.g. energy and transport sector, industry, agriculture, waste management, residential and commercial buildings). Considerable variations also exists in Switzerland with respect to the shares of the total national greenhouse gas emissions accounted for by different sectors, the potential for reduction and the cost of teh associated savings.

In addition to the obvious advantages of emission reduction measures, positive secondary effects also arise for Switzerland, for example the release from dependency on fossil fuels, the reduction of environmental pollution in Switzerland and the stimulation of the technical innovation process.

A list of the different sectors and their emissions reduction potential and the associated costs can be found in this report.