The latest CO2 statistics report from the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) reveals a 1.1 percent reduction in emissions from motor fuels in 2022 compared to the previous year. Notably, these emissions have declined by over 8 percent since 2019, before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, emissions from combustible sources experienced a 4.9 percent decrease in 2022, accounting for weather adjustments.

The decrease in CO2 emissions from motor fuels can be attributed to improved energy efficiency in buildings and a growing shift towards renewable energy sources for heating. The change in mobility patterns during the pandemic, with more individuals working from home and fewer business trips, has also played a role in maintaining lower emissions levels. Furthermore, the rising adoption of electromobility in road traffic and a slight increase in the share of alternative fuels in total fuel consumption have contributed to the positive trend.

To ensure comparability across different years, the FOEN employs weather adjustments, which consider variations in winter weather and their impact on energy consumption. Utilizing heating degree days and solar radiation during winter months as indicators, emissions from combustible sources were determined to be 36 percent lower than in 1990.

The reduction in combustible emissions can be largely attributed to enhanced building energy efficiency, a greater reliance on renewable energy sources for heating, and proactive efforts by various regions. The federal government’s energy-saving campaign, alongside prevailing high energy prices, may have also encouraged a decline in emissions.

The FOEN’s use of weather adjustment follows established methodologies from the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), ensuring accurate and unbiased assessments.

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