Just before the Swiss population will vote on greater protection of animal and plant species in their country at the end of this week, the debate about a new biodiversity law has flared up again.
In addition, a broad alliance of Swiss nature and environmental organizations, including parts of agriculture, supports the government proposal, against a no-alliance of the Swiss farmers' association and other business associations. Compared to surrounding (EU) countries, biodiversity is not doing well.
Proponents say that species extinction is a major problem that could seriously threaten not only nature but also human society, including agriculture and the economy. They say that current measures are insufficient to reverse the ecological crisis in Switzerland.
Opponents, especially representatives of the agricultural sector, strongly criticize the proposed measures. They argue that they are too rigid and unrealistic, with the result that they could severely limit agricultural production. This would have a negative impact on food security, since Switzerland has only limited agricultural land available.
Furthermore, they fear that stricter rules and restrictions will lead to higher costs for farmers and a deterioration in the competitive position of Swiss products on the international market. Many farmers believe that the initiatives are disproportionately burdening them and that better, more balanced solutions are possible.
A special group of opponents consists of the Swiss organic farmers, who normally advocate sustainable agricultural practices. In the Bern region, for example, organic farmers have spoken out against the initiatives. The organic farmers emphasize that the current initiatives could undermine their competitiveness without achieving significant ecological gains.
In addition, there are economic arguments that weigh heavily in the debate. Farmers and their interest groups are concerned about the financial consequences of biodiversity measures. They point to the high costs associated with implementing stricter rules.
In recent referendums on environmental and climate issues in Switzerland, voters have often spoken out. For example, in June 2021, the Swiss voted against the “CO2 law,” a key part of Switzerland’s climate policy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This proposal was rejected due to concerns about its economic impact, especially on rural and middle-class communities.
However, in 2022, the Swiss voted in favor of the “Yes to Climate Protection” law, which introduced new rules to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help meet international climate goals.