Protected Areas in Switzerland

Swiss National Park, founded in 1914 through a private initiative, preserves untouched landscapes and a rich diversity of wildlife and plant life. Clear boundaries and strict protection rules safeguard a unique ecosystem and allow visitors to experience nature on marked trails.

Federal hunting ban areas have existed since 1875. They protect and support wildlife and their habitats. Depending on the area, different restrictions may apply (e.g., staying on marked paths, quiet periods, or access bans in sensitive zones).

Pro Natura secures and manages over 770 nature reserves, preserving a wide variety of habitats for flora and fauna. These protected zones enable close-to-nature experiences, often with clear rules to protect animals, plants, and habitats.

UNESCO World Heritage sites include natural and cultural places of outstanding universal value. Protection and use are regulated by the Confederation, cantons, and municipalities — rules (including camping rules) vary by location.

Wildlife rest areas protect animals during sensitive periods (e.g., breeding or winter) by restricting recreational activities in time or space. They are especially important for disturbance-sensitive species and their refuges.

Mire landscapes are unique habitats of high ecological importance. They provide living space for rare plant and animal species, store water, and help preserve distinctive landscape scenery.

Fens are nutrient-poor wetlands with specialized, often endangered species. Protecting them preserves rare habitats and important ecological functions.

Raised bogs are among Switzerland’s most sensitive ecosystems and are severely threatened. They provide specialized habitats for rare species and fulfill important ecological functions.

Floodplains are dynamic river landscapes and natural overflow zones. They are among the most species-rich habitats, provide refuges for many plants and animals, and support important ecological processes.

Dry meadows and pastures developed through traditional, extensive agriculture and are now rare in many places. They host many specialized and endangered species. The federal inventory is updated regularly, and the delineation of sites is carried out by the cantons.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are model regions of UNESCO’s “Man and the Biosphere” (MAB) programme. They combine nature conservation, sustainable use, research, and environmental education, and are divided into core, buffer, and transition zones.

The Emerald Network is a Europe-wide network that protects endangered animal and plant species and habitats under the Bern Convention. In Switzerland, Emerald sites are designated and registered with the Council of Europe; the specific protection measures depend on the site and its legal basis.

Ramsar sites are internationally recognized wetlands of special importance, especially as habitats for waterbirds and waders. Since ratifying the convention in 1976, Switzerland has committed to conserving these sensitive ecosystems sustainably.