In May 2020, the Federal Office for the Environment published a study showing that in Switzerland, around 14,000 tonnes of plastic seep into the ground and water every year. Nearly 2,700 tonnes of this waste is the result of littering, i.e. dumping or carelessness. In addition to microplastics, many other types of waste also end up in the environment, including in the mountains.
Initiated by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC), the #cleanmountains campaign aims to raise awareness among hikers and hut guests about waste production and management. This campaign was created with the support of the Summit Foundation and Zurich Insurance.
Around fifty huts have been fitted with dispensers for recycled plastic waste bags 100%Guests are asked to use the bins for their own rubbish, as well as any they come across along the way.
Waste collection campaigns are organised every summer near certain huts, often as part of the Clean-Up Tour.
A series of posters complements these practical measures to raise awareness among hikers and hut users of the environmental impact of waste. Three posters, three messages on how to reduce waste in the mountains. The posters are available in German and French from our online shop or can be downloaded.
Find out more: www.sac-cas.ch
