The climate targets have been set: Switzerland is to be climate-neutral by 2050. But how can this change be achieved in concrete terms - and what role does the building sector play in this? This blog post sheds light on how SAGER is already paving the way towards net zero with innovative system solutions for energy-efficient building envelopes.
What does net zero mean in concrete terms?
Net zero means that no new greenhouse gases may be released into the atmosphere - all emissions must be avoided or compensated for. It is an ambitious but necessary goal in order to limit global warming to a manageable level. To achieve this goal, far-reaching changes are needed in all areas, especially in the building sector. Find out more about the federal government's net-zero target here: Net zero target 2050
Climate Strategy Switzerland - Where does Switzerland stand?
With the revised CO₂ Act and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement, Switzerland has committed to becoming climate-neutral by 2050. Despite progress in the energy sector, emissions in the building sector remain high - there is an urgent need for action here.
Why the focus is on the building sector
Around a third of Switzerland's CO₂ emissions come from buildings, mainly due to outdated heating systems using fossil fuels and poor building insulation. Improving the building envelope offers enormous potential and is the most efficient and sustainable approach to reducing emissions.
emissions due to heat loss
A large proportion of energy loss is caused by inadequately insulated building envelopes. Heat escapes through roofs, walls and windows. This not only leads to high heating costs, but also to unnecessary CO₂ emissions. Effective building insulation is therefore a key lever for preventing emissions.
The insulation lever is effective immediately
In contrast to long-term infrastructure projects, the energy-efficient refurbishment of buildings can be implemented quickly. Insulation measures have an immediate impact - both on the carbon footprint and on the owner's wallet, while also increasing living comfort. No other lever offers such a rapid effect.
Building stock/existing buildings as the greatest lever
Over 60 % of buildings in Switzerland were built before 1980 and no longer meet today's energy standards. The energy renovation of this stock represents the greatest lever for achieving the net-zero targets.
SAGER system solution as a contribution to net zero
With our insulation systems, we offer solutions that combine efficiency with simple processing. Our system solutions for façades help planners and contractors to renovate more quickly, safely and sustainably.
SAGER façade systems make a major contribution
Whether ventilated (VHF) or compact (VAWD), our systems combine energy performance with aesthetic and physical advantages. They can be used flexibly and enable high surface performance during refurbishment.
Glass wool made from recycled glass
Our glass wool insulation materials are largely made from recycled waste glass - a clear sign of resource conservation and the circular economy. We are therefore making a contribution to net zero not only in terms of energy consumption, but also in our choice of materials.
Support from MuKEn/GEAK
Instruments such as the model cantonal energy regulations (MuKEn) and the cantonal building energy certificate (GEAK) specifically promote energy-efficient renovations. They offer planning security and financial incentives - a benefit for building owners and the climate. Our system solutions are designed to fulfil or exceed these standards.
Conclusion
Net zero starts today - and the building sector plays a key role in this. Anyone who invests in energy-efficient refurbishment today will benefit twice over: through lower energy costs and by making an active contribution to achieving climate targets. With system solutions from SAGER, you can play an active role in shaping this change. Find out more now and take the next step together.
