Climate protection: Switzerland signs agreement with Georgia
Switzerland has signed a bilateral agreement with Georgia that serves to protect the climate. Similar agreements already exist with other countries. They allow Switzerland to count emission reductions in these countries towards its reduction target.
Under the Paris Climate Agreement, Switzerland has committed to halving its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. This goal remains in place even after the rejection of the revised CO2 law, as the Uvek emphasizes in its statement. Switzerland will achieve it primarily through domestic measures. However, according to the Paris Agreement, it may also support climate projects abroad to achieve its climate targets: The emission reductions achieved there can be credited to Switzerland's national reduction target. The federal government has already concluded such agreements with Peru, Ghana and Senegal.
Support program for energy efficiency in buildings
Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga and Georgian Environment Minister Levan Davitashvili signed the bilateral agreement between Georgia and Switzerland in Bern on October 18. It is expected to enter into force this year and will enable the development of a national support program for energy efficiency in buildings, according to the statement. According to Uvek, it will incorporate the many years of experience gained from the Swiss building program. "Well-insulated houses and efficient heating systems reduce CO2 emissions. This serves climate protection, and people also benefit from these measures," said Uvek head Sommaruga.
Source: Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC)
