Forest legislation: Tree-land is on the increase
Since 1876, the Forest Act has ensured that the area of Swiss forests does not decrease. Today, 31% of Switzerland is forested – and the trend is rising. Among other things, the trees protect against avalanches and have a CO2-reducing effect.
A third of Switzerland is made up of woodlands and annually an area the size of Lake Thun additionally added. Particularly in the Alps and south side of the Alps woodlands are again gaining territory. Legislation in Switzerland ensures areas of woodland remain unchanged - especially in heavily populated and growing regions. Forest clearances are only permissible with special permission, and cleared trees must generally be replaced.
In winter trees protect mountain valleys from avalanches. And of course pinewoods serve as a natural habitat for a number of animals. Woods provide a healthy environment and tranquil setting to relax in – as well as storing CO2 greenhouse gas in the form of biomass, thus relieving the atmosphere of detrimental greenhouse gas.