Thread by @publiceye_ch

Swiss #multinationals are responsible for at least 2-3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, if indirect emissions are taken into account. These numbers are similar to Brasil, Japan or Indonesia, despite Switzerland’s comparatively small population and size. 🧵

According to a @McKinsey study, greenhouse gas emissions directly controlled by multinational enterprises in🇨🇭are 7 to 10 times higher than the country’s domestic emissions. And that’s without including the emissions along these enterprises’ value chain. Here’s how 👇

In relation to its size, Switzerland is among the countries with the highest climate-damaging greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Externalising negative consequences of its wealth has been a part of the “Swiss business model” for a long time.

As a host to numerous #multinationals and as a global financial as well as commodities trading hub, Switzerland can and must use its influence to shape global #ClimatePolicy. Two examples:

The Swiss financial centre. Emissions related to financing from Switzerland multiply our total emissions 14 to 18 times (!!), according to @McKinsey. If we take these indirect emissions into account, we are among the main culprit of the climate chaos.

Commodity trade. Swiss companies are responsible for 40% of global #coal trade. The annual CO2 emissions from extraction, transport and consumption of coal produced by 🇨🇭 companies are higher than those of the United States.

Due to its dominant position in the damaging #coaltrade, Switzerland could have a real influence on global #ClimatePolicy. But today, the country does not assume this responsibility. This must end. #StopCoal

The concept of #ClimateJustice means acting where the climate crisis can be effectively addressed. In Switzerland, this means in Geneva, Zug and Lugano, the strongholds of global #coal trade.

Those who contributed most to the #ClimateCrisis and profited from greenhouse gas emissions also have to pay the most for the damage caused and the costs of adaption measures.
#ClimateJustice

Those responsible for the #ClimateCrisis need to immediately and drastically reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. But they don’t. And this aggravates #inequality across the globe.

Finally, #ClimateJustice means to recognize the role of #multinationals in the ClimateCrisis and demand that they assume responsibility. As of today, Switzerland does not use all the tools it has to act in the #ClimateCrisis.