Swiss Stories

SBB

Intelligent technology for greater energy efficiency

Environment
Tablets for saving electricity? They exist. Thousands of Swiss train drivers are now using tablets with a new innovative software for reducing the electricity consumption of trains. For this innovative solution, the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has received the prestigious prize for energy efficiency Watt d’Or of the Federal Office of Energy (FOE).
Wild hay © Luzern Tourismus

Wild hay making – a fascinating Swiss tradition

History
In my family archives, I have come across a black and white reel dating back to the 1960s. The film documents my ancestors on a late summer day as they collect fresh hay off their pasture in the Rhine Valley. At one point, an elderly farmer loads a huge ball of hay onto a sledge in order to haul it to the valley. These scenes got me thinking: what is the tradition of alpine hay making all about, and is it still being practiced in this day and age?
Dimitri Burkhard

by Dimitri Burkhard

swiss rock

Switzerland rocks!

Society
From Ticino to St Gallen and on to Geneva: today's rock scene is as vibrant as it is varied. Here's a rundown of some Swiss bands making themselves heard.
West of Juba, camp of Dulamaya. A distribution of seeds and tools kits is about to start. Displaced families are starting to gather close to an ICRC vehicule.

The Geneva Conventions: 70 years old and as relevant as ever

History
Switzerland has long been famous for its chocolate, watches and idyllic landscapes – and also for its humanitarian tradition. A signal example was its key role in the adoption of the Geneva Conventions, which are celebrating their 70th anniversary this year. Since their adoption in 1949, the Conventions have saved countless lives in armed conflicts, but ensuring compliance with them remains a complex and long-term undertaking. Two Swiss Humanitarian Aid specialists share their insights from the field.
Swiss made plastic house

Upcycling: Swiss made plastic house

Environment
Switzerland is often cited as a model for recycling because of the rubbish collection, waste separation and waste recovery methods deployed. Public bodies, research institutes, companies and citizens are taking action to reduce their impact on the environment and society. Businesses are innovating and developing technologies for resource management, rubbish collection and recycling more effectively with a view to creating a more circular economy.
Michelle Gisin St. Anton

Michelle Gisin: jewel in the family crown

Society
The 27-year-old Engelberg native has emerged this winter as the new star of Swiss skiing. She and her older sister Dominique have each won an Olympic gold, while their brother Marc also made his name a few seasons back on Kitzbühel's legendary Streif. Presenting the Gisins: a family of gifted skiers.

by Bertrand Monnard

Jona PGT, Personal Gallery studio in Lugano

'Swiss Tattoo': Swiss quality under the skin

Society
With 'Swiss made', you know what you're getting: perfect execution, a five-star finish and impeccable quality. This know-how also applies to the Swiss tattoo scene; the country can boast a generation of tattoo artists whose unique talent has earned them international renown.