9.7 50

Region

Switzerland

02

Ecoregions

0

Members

9.7

% Protected

Switzerland’s wildareas are a cornerstone of this alpine country’s national identity. Beginning in the early 20th century, Swiss conservationists labored to establish some of the best protected nature reserves in the world. Today these are useful scientific baselines for learning about how nature functions when unperturbed by human activity.

Switzerland

Switzerland's Ecology

Though the percentage of formal protections are quite low, nature could still reach half in much of Switzerland. Many alpine landscapes remain in their natural, wild state. Switzerland’s continued focus on natural protections helps reign in unnecessary human settlements, building out initiatives that increase city density and protecting natural resources. Addressing the “human half” of the equation is a necessary part of the Nature Needs Half movement, and Switzerland is an exemplary case study in strategies and solutions that help protect wild landscapes.

Half (Mission Achieved)

Ecologically intact & protected landscapes comprise 50% or more of this country.

Can Reach Half

Intact landscapes lacking protected status comprise 50% or more of this country.

Could Be Restored

Between 20-40% of landscapes are still ecologically intact.

Imperiled

Less than 20% of the natural ecology of this area is intact.

The Nature Needs Half movement is only as strong as its member organizations. Discover more about the individuals and organizations who have committed to protecting 50% of the planet by 2050.
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EcoRegions

Matterhorn glacier, Switzerland. Photo by Joshua Fuller.
The Swiss National Park

A strict nature reserve, this 174 square kilometer region prioritizes natural processes above all else, protecting nature in a pristine state.

Meadow in Switzerland. Photo by Johannes Plenio.
Aargau Jura Park

Mixed use landscapes can still comprise a hefty portion of wildness, supporting ample biodiversity. Aargau Jura consists of meadows, rocky steppes, forests, meadows, and orchards.

Switzerland Allondon
Allondon

A tributary of the Rhone, the course of the Allondon river supports the only known population of a rare insect, and holds great cultural value for the Swiss people.

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Big cats find love and habitat in Switzerland
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How to Help

If you believe that we have a window of opportunity to end the Sixth Mass Extinction by protecting half of nature, act today and become a part of a global community transforming society's relationship with the natural world!

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Become a Member

Building political will for nature starts with building community. When your organization joins Nature Needs Half you create new opportunities for change in your region.
Donate

Support our work to protect half of nature. Your contributions go towards expanding and strengthening local coalitions around the world working to protect half of their regions.
Sign the Declaration

When you sign the Nature Needs Half Declaration you publicly declare your support for a respectful relationship with nature and build momentum for change!