Swiss Voters Reject Biodiversity Protection Proposal

Swiss voters rejected a proposal to enhance protection of natural habitats from pollution and development. The 'biodiversity initiative' aimed to set aside more land for conservation, but over 60% opposed it. The Green Party expressed disappointment, while opponents argued it was too extreme and harmful to business.

Swiss voters on Sunday decisively rejected a proposal designed to enhance protections for natural habitats from pollution and development, according to preliminary referendum results. The ambitious 'biodiversity initiative' aimed to allocate additional land for conservation, beyond already protected areas in one of Europe's most picturesque landscapes.

The proposal was closely monitored by international conservationists, as it came amid growing global concerns over biodiversity loss. However, over 60% of voters opposed the initiative, according to projections by national broadcaster SRF, rendering it unfeasible.

The Swiss Green Party expressed disappointment with the outcome, emphasizing that a third of all species and half the habitats in Switzerland remain under threat. Opponents, including the country's primary farming lobby, countered that the initiative was excessively stringent and risky for business development. They argued that existing Swiss laws already address conservation needs sufficiently.

(With inputs from agencies.)