Switzerland's Environment Minister Promises National Water Strategy Amid Drought Concerns

Switzerland's Environment Minister Albert Rösti has announced plans to develop a national water supply strategy, aiming for better inter-cantonal coordination and the establishment of priorities where necessary.

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a national strategy for water supply. It will aim in particular for better inter-cantonal coordination and, if necessary, for the definition of priorities.

The announcement comes after a summer marked by severe heatwaves and drought, which Rösti acknowledged had been particularly dramatic for farmers. This shift in approach is notable given Rösti's past statements; in 2019, as president of the Swiss People's Party (UDC), he advocated for resisting "climate fanatics."

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notably for the farmers

While not a complete conversion to environmentalist prophecies, the minister's current stance appears influenced by the prevailing weather conditions. Earlier this spring, the federal government, represented by Rösti, had rejected a motion in the National Council that called for a harmonized and national water consumption strategy. The motion, supported by all parties except the UDC, highlighted how water scarcity locally creates conflicts and necessitates arbitration between various uses, including agriculture, security services, hydroelectric power, and tourism.

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resist the climate fanatics

At that time, the Federal Council argued that water management fell under the jurisdiction of communes and cantons. However, the motion was ultimately accepted against the government's advice. The new strategy signals a potential move towards a more centralized approach to water resource management, acknowledging the growing challenges posed by climate change and increasing demand.

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harmonized and national strategy for water consumption