Switzerland’s population grew by 18% between 2000 and 2017, while road and rail traffic grew by around 30% in the same period. Air traffic exploded with the number of passengers increasing by 60%. Switzerland has more than one car for every two residents: 4.6 million vehicles.
All this travelling causes carbon dioxide emissions. In 2016, transportation (excluding international flights) accounted for 38% of Swiss emissions. Transport alone accounted for 36% of energy used in the country and the infrastructure cost CHF16.8 billion ($17 billion) in 2015.
On an individual level, a Swiss resident spent an average of 90 minutes a day travelling, of which half was spent on leisure-related activities. The average work commute was 17 minutes long and a distance of 15km, according to the same source.
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‘Hidden’ transport costs on the rise
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The so-called ‘external costs’ of various modes of transport collectively increased by almost CHF1 billion during the period 2010-2015.
What do you think Switzerland’s Alain Berset can bring to the Council of Europe?
The former interior minister is to become the first Swiss Secretary General of the Council of Europe – which issues should his five-year term focus on?
How is your country dealing with the return of stolen artifacts?
Western nations like Switzerland often have to deal with the process of recovering or returning looted artifacts which have been illegally imported. What’s the situation like in your country?
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Swiss take the train more often, and further, than European neighbours
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The latest Europe-wide figures confirm Switzerland’s reputation as a country of trains, with average trips and kilometres covered far higher than elsewhere.
Flixbus expects jump in Swiss ticket sales after domestic route approval
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The German low-cost bus company estimates a 40% increase in Swiss passengers following approval in June to offer domestic routes.
Swiss public transport given good marks for cost-effectiveness
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Using public transport infrequently in Switzerland is expensive, but thanks to new special offers, it does well when it comes to value for money.
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If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.