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PROJECT-SUPPORT SWITZERLAND

2025-83-CHE-SDG 15 / Association “Abfalltaucher Schweiz”

SDG 15: Life on land

Association “Abfalltaucher Schweiz“ (Swiss Litter Divers), Hergiswil NW, Switzerland

Country / Region

Switzerland

In the picturesque landscape of Switzerland, where nature still seems unspoilt in many places, a problem is hiding beneath the surface of the water that requires our full attention; the pollution of bodies of water by social waste.  

Example lakes:       Lake Lucerne, Lake Thun, Lake Zug, Lake Sils, Lake Lugano, Lake Zurich
Example rivers:      Aare, Limmat

 

General

“Abfalltaucher Schweiz” is a non-profit organisation of volunteer divers that has been removing rubbish from Swiss lakes and rivers for years. Through these missions, 20 - 40 tonnes of waste (tyres, plastic, metal, and other materials) are recovered from the waters every year. The project serves to protect biodiversity in and around our waters and sensitises the population to the value of clean water, and an intact environment.

The missions are conducted by trained divers and volunteers. However, they are associated with high material and coordination costs for the organisation (e.g. special safety and protective equipment, boats, waste disposal, further training for helpers). 

Activities

12 - 15 labour operations per year to remove waste and clean up Swiss lakes and rivers.

Protection of living creatures under water (fish, amphibians, microorganisms) and on the lake shore (birds, mammals) by removing waste that could become a threat.

Educating and sensitising the population through campaigns and events, e.g. at schools, on the subject of environmental protection.  

Supporting local communities and municipalities with clean and safe waters.

Cooperation with other nature conservation organisations.

Each of us can make a contribution. Whether through conscious consumer behaviour, avoiding single-use products, participating in cleanups, or simply sharing knowledge - every action counts. “Abfalltaucher Schweiz” wants to draw attention to the fact that the protection of our waters is in the hands of every individual.

 

Project-support

Project: Cleanups Year 2025

It's time to rethink and take action. Up to 30 - 60 members and volunteers take part in the cleanups organised by “Abfalltaucher Schweiz” to clean promenades, harbour basins, lakes, and riverbanks or lakeside resorts.

The divers and helpers conduct their missions free of charge and in all weather conditions in their free time. The maintenance of the rescue boat and the purchase of consumables and catering are financed exclusively by donations. However, this does not include diving equipment, for which each diver is responsible and must pay for themselves. The association organises activities throughout Switzerland, be it exploratory dives or monthly cleanups.

The divers retrieve up to three tonnes of waste per cleanup. Most of it is bottles, cans, and plastic waste, but chairs, kickboards, bicycles, mopeds, and even prams have also been brought to the surface. The waste divers often perform exhausting missions so that social waste and environmental sins can be efficiently recovered and properly disposed of.

Interested - Cleanup Events:https://abfalltaucher.ch/events/kategorie/eventkalender/

Website
Abfalltaucher Schweiz

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