Topic Biodiversity

Switzerland’s biodiversity is under pressure. Although measures to promote biodiversity are showing an effect, biodiversity in general nevertheless remains in a poor state, particularly on the Swiss plateau region. Nearly half of Switzerland’s natural habitats and one third of its species are threatened. Specific local gains are insufficient to make up for the losses caused overall by a lack of available land area, soil sealing, fragmentation, intensive land use, as well as nitrogen and pesticide inputs. Subsidies that harm biodiversity exacerbate this negative trend. There is an urgent need for decisive action to safeguard services provided by biodiversity. A rich and resilient biodiversity also helps to mitigate the consequences of climate change.

Rich biodiversity and its ecosystem services benefit not only society, but also the economy. This is why the Federal Constitution obliges the Confederation and the cantons to work together to safeguard the natural foundations of life for the long-term. The FOEN supports the Confederation in implementing a coherent biodiversity policy and in continuing to develop it further.