Published on 5 January 2026

Voluntary industry solution for SF₆

The voluntary industry solution aims to limit the use and emissions of SF₆ as far as possible. It is coordinated by Swissmem.

SF₆ is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential of 23,500 (1kg of SF₆ is equivalent in potency to 23.5 tonnes of CO₂). Its use is generally prohibited, with exceptions for applications in which SF₆ cannot be replaced by other substances (such as insulating gas in electric high-voltage equipment or particle accelerators).

Since 2000, there has been an agreement between Swissmem, representing the participating companies, and the FOEN to limit SF₆ emissions through a voluntary industry solution. The agreement includes reduction targets for emissions of SF₆ from the manufacture and operation of electrical installations and from particle accelerators. Emissions from these applications have been reduced by more than half, especially in the last 15 years.

The targets for SF₆ emissions have been further reduced for the 2026–30 period, to an average of 0.9 tonnes per year for electrical equipment and 0.25 tonnes per year for particle accelerators. Compliance with these targets will be reviewed in summer 2031 based on data for the years 2026–30. Swissmem is responsible for coordinating the agreement on behalf of industry. Swissmem compiles an annual material balance for SF₆, which is incorporated into the Swiss greenhouse gas inventory.

• Swiss voluntary agreement for the use of SF6 in electrical switching devices and switchgear

  PDF1.67 MB5 January 2026

• Swiss voluntary agreement for the use of SF6 in Particle Beam Accelerators (Electron and Proton Beam Accelerators)

  PDF1.05 MB5 January 2026

• Links

  • SWISSMEM: Voluntary sector-wide solution for SF6