Swisstainable

How the Swiss tourism sustainability program is integrated into the Zurich destination and which businesses are part of it.

Swisstainable at a Glance

The name “Swisstainable” combines the words “Swiss” and “sustainable” and serves as the umbrella brand for the Swiss tourism sustainability program. The program aims to support businesses and destinations in their development across various areas of sustainability. Through its rating system, it highlights existing and planned sustainability initiatives by tourism businesses and destinations.

It is important to note that Swisstainable is not a standalone sustainability certification – instead, it recognizes existing, external certifications and accreditations, provided they meet the program’s requirements.

Any tourism business or destination in Switzerland may participate in the program.

Depending on the level of commitment, there are three levels:

Level I

committed

At this level, companies meet the program’s basic requirements: They sign the commitment and pledge to continuously advance their sustainability efforts. In addition, they conduct a sustainability assessment covering economic, social, and environmental aspects. Based on this, they develop an action plan with at least three specific measures that they will implement within three years.

Level II

engaged

In addition to the requirements of Level I – committed, businesses must submit a valid, recognized, and externally audited sustainability certification that covers at least one of the three areas – economics, social responsibility, and the environment.

Level III

leading

Building on the requirements of Level I – committed and Level II – engaged, participants at this level hold a valid, recognized sustainability certification. It covers all three areas (economic, social, and environmental) and is regularly audited by an external body.

Highest Level for Zurich

Both the Zurich destination and the organization Zürich Tourism have been awarded the highest Swisstainable rating: Level III – leading.

Partner Businesses

In the Zurich region, there are already many tourism businesses that are part of the Swisstainable sustainability program. This page features a curated selection of them – but there are significantly more businesses in Zurich that are part of the program.

Accomodation

Regardless of star rating, size, or location, several hotels have already joined the Swisstainable program. A selection of them can be viewed here.

Food and Drink

This selection presents Zurich restaurants, cafés, and bars that have received a Swisstainable rating – regardless of their cuisine, location, or size.

Experiences

Experiences can also be part of the sustainability program – regardless of the season or type of experience. For example, this could include a visit to a casino or museum, a boat ride, or an excursion to the ice rink. The offer is correspondingly diverse.