In a recent referendum in Switzerland, more than 63% of voters rejected a proposal to provide additional funding for wild and wildlife conservation efforts. The initiative aimed to support farmers in setting aside land and waterways for the development of wildlife and creating more green spaces. However, opponents argued that the plan was too costly, with an estimated cost of at least 400 million Swiss francs in addition to the 600 million already spent on biodiversity protection each year.
The federal government, rural voters, and the country’s main right-wing party were among those who opposed the initiative, citing concerns about the impact on the economy and various industries such as energy, food production, and tourism. Proponents of the plan highlighted the importance of protecting biodiversity in Switzerland, pointing to threats to bees, birds, and other wildlife species. They argued that protected green spaces are essential for supporting local economies and ensuring air quality, water purity, and food supply.
The weakening biodiversity in Switzerland has been attributed to intensified agriculture, landscape fragmentation, pollution, and climate change. The country ranks among the top four OECD countries with the highest rates of threatened species in all categories of wildlife. Despite the referendum’s outcome, the debate over biodiversity conservation and the balance between economic interests and environmental protection is likely to continue in Switzerland.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com
