Effectiveness of CO2 penalties for new cars and vans

Key facts

The CO₂ Act envisages a reduction in domestic greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 of at least 20% compared to 1990. The Federal Council’s CO₂ emission regulations are part of the effort to reduce greenhouse gases. In 2020, road traffic accounted for around 40% of Switzerland’s total CO₂ emissions. The measure creates incentives for vehicle importers to offer low-emission vehicles. For this purpose, individually calculated emission ceilings are set for imported vehicles. If the value is exceeded, a penalty is imposed. The penalty amounts paid have risen sharply since 2018. They totalled CHF 28 million in 2021. Enforcement costs have held steady since 2012. In 2020, they amounted to around 1% of penalty revenue.