Switzerland signed a bilateral agreement with Georgia on climate protection. Similar agreements already exist with Peru, Ghana, and Senegal. They allow Switzerland to count emission reductions achieved in these countries towards its own reduction target.
Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga stressed: «With these agreements, we have created a standard for international climate projects that respect human rights and nature.»
Under the Paris Climate Agreement, Switzerland has committed itself to halve its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared with 1990 levels. This goal remains in place despite the rejection of the revised CO2 Act. Switzerland will achieve this primarily through domestic measures. However, according to the Paris Agreement, it may also support climate projects abroad in order to achieve its climate goals. Switzerland can count the emission reductions achieved there towards its national reduction target. Switzerland has already concluded such agreements with Peru, Ghana, and Senegal.
Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga and Georgian Environment Minister Levan Davitashvili signed the bilateral agreement between Georgia and Switzerland in Bern. It is due to come into force later this year and will enable the development of a national support program for energy efficiency in buildings. The many years of experience from the Swiss Buildings Programme will be of particular benefit in that respect.
«Well-insulated houses and efficient heating systems reduce CO2 emissions. This will help protect the climate, and people will also benefit from these measures», said Federal Councillor Sommaruga.
