Analysis
Zurich says it is a sustainable destination - here is what is documented
- Zurich presents itself as a sustainable destination, holding multiple certifications and implementing various environmental initiatives. The city aims for climate neutrality by 2040 and has a goal of reducing CO2 emissions per person to one tonne by 2050. Zürich Tourism has been recognized as Switzerland's first climate-neutral tourism organization since 2010, actively offsetting unavoidable emissions.
- Zurich has achieved EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations Silver Certification, initially awarded in 2024 and renewed for 2025. It also holds ISO 9001 (since 2007) and ISO 14001 (since 2010) certifications, and the City of Zürich has been honored with the European Energy Award®GOLD. Furthermore, Zurich is designated as a Swisstainable Level III destination. Some hotels, like Storchen Zürich, have taken steps to eliminate single-use plastics in guest rooms and provide refillable amenities.
- Conservation efforts include 74 hectares of designated nature conservation areas around Zurich Airport and the recognition of the Sihlwald Nature Discovery Park as a Park of National Importance. The city also focuses on local food sourcing, with a goal for 50% of food in municipal catering facilities to be sustainability-certified by 2030.
- Data on specific sustainability metrics like renewable energy percentage and waste diversion percentage is not explicitly provided. The trust tier for Zurich's sustainability claims could be raised by providing more granular data on energy consumption, waste management, and the specific impact of its conservation programs. Independent audits for its certifications provide a baseline level of verification.
Conservation programs
- ›Zurich Airport's perimeter includes 74 hectares of designated nature conservation areas.
- ›The Sihlwald Nature Discovery Park was recognized as a Park of National Importance in 2010.
Certifications on record
EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations certificationISO 9001ISO 14001European Energy Award®GOLDSwisstainable Level III