Large Swiss companies have made significant strides in reducing CO2 emissions over the past two years, according to a survey by AWP news agency. In 2023, companies listed on the Swiss Market Index (SMI) cut their greenhouse gas emissions by 8.9% compared to 2021. The 20 largest Swiss firms emitted a total of 81 million tonnes of CO2 last year, based on their sustainability reports.

These figures reflect only the direct emissions caused by the companies, such as those from oil-fired heating or vehicle fleets. Emissions along the value chain, including suppliers and logistics, are much higher. By the end of 2023, these emissions totaled 256 million tonnes of CO2, down by around a quarter from two years earlier.

The pace of progress varies among companies. Novartis and Geberit achieved the most significant reductions in operational emissions, while Sika, Kühne+Nagel, and Richemont saw increases. Major emitters Holcim and Nestlé also reported decreases in their CO2 emissions.

However, emissions in the value chain, particularly from air transport, have increased for half of the SMI companies as global travel resumed post-pandemic, leading to higher emissions in the service sector.

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