A look at the present situation, past developments – and forecasts up to 2060: INFRAS has prepared a report on air pollutant emissions from road transport for the federal government. Modelling results show how stricter regulations affect the rate of emission reductions.

The effects of climate change are already both tangible and measurable in Switzerland. Climate policy aims to respond to the issue. But what will things be like in 70 or so years? An ongoing research project illustrates potential socioeconomic and political developments of Swiss climate policy. INFRAS is in charge of implementing the project. 

When it comes to energy efficiency and expanding the use of renewable energies, electricity, heat and gas suppliers play an important role. The latest energy company benchmarking analysis shows where energy companies have already done a great deal – and where a fair bit can still be done. 

Preventing illegal logging, tracking energy production, and correctly allocating emissions under the polluter pays principle – all of this is possible with blockchain technology. The new Navigating Report 2021 from the Climate Ledger Initiative presents the results of climate-related pilot projects making use of blockchain and other innovative digital technologies.

In the future, both negative emission technologies and trade with international emission certificates are options for municipalities and cantons to reach their climate change mitigation targets. What is their potential, and how suitable are they for the city and for the canton of Zurich on the path to net zero emissions?

A project that began in 2011 is now bearing fruit: India is launching a new nationwide code for energy efficiency in residential buildings. Developed in partnership with Switzerland, the regulations result in significant energy and CO₂ savings, especially where building cooling is concerned.

In Swiss industrial and service companies, energy management is often limited to analysing own energy consumption and to calculating the costs and savings of any efficiency measures. It has little impact on investment decisions, however, as a study as part of National Research Programme NRP 71 shows.

How can a country evaluate its climate policy? A compendium by international experts shows methods by which countries can assess by themselves, how effective their climate policy is. And it shows what additional efforts are required in order to achieve their national climate protection goals. 

An energy-saving target agreement with the Swiss Federal Government, a share of more than 5% electricity costs per gross value added, and a refund amount of at least CHF 20'000 per year: Under these conditions, large commercial or industrial end users are entitled to a refund of their national network supplement for the promotion of renewable energies.