Unternavigation

International initiatives

The FOEN participates in international initiatives for the promotion of a green and resource-conserving economy and shares its experience with other national programmes. These activities reflect not only Switzerland's ecological responsibility, but also its economic and social interests.

International economic policies and the environment

The way in which natural resources are produced, distributed and consumed is the number one cause behind the crises of global warming, biodiversity loss and pollution. Fundamental change is needed to tackle these challenges. Two thirds of the environmental impact of Swiss consumption is generated abroad by imported products and raw materials.

Sustainable raw materials and infrastructure

Delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals and implementing the Paris Agreement and major infrastructure projects require large quantities of raw materials, including minerals. However, the extraction of these materials generates significant environmental impacts, such as biodiversity loss, mine waste (tailings), pollution of air and water and soil contamination.