Climate Bridges: Pioneering the Future with the Initiative for Sustainable Finance
At Climate Bridges, we are excited to announce our active involvement in the newly launched Initiative for Sustainable Finance, a vital effort to position Switzerland as a global leader in sustainable finance. In partnership with Climate Alliance Switzerland and through our women-led network SHE Builds Bridges for Climate Action, we are committed to driving this initiative forward and showing how sustainability can lead to future economic growth and global leadership.
Why This Initiative Is Essential
Switzerland’s financial sector, including some of the largest banks and insurance companies in the world, has a significant global impact. The sector's investments are responsible for greenhouse gas emissions up to 18 times higher than the country's domestic emissions.
These emissions are driven by:
Investments in fossil fuel infrastructure projects.
Funding of food and agricultural projects linked to deforestation.
The Initiative for Sustainable Finance seeks to turn these challenges into opportunities by promoting regenerative investments that benefit climate, people, and nature. Switzerland is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. By embracing this initiative, the country can cement its role as a pioneer in aligning financial practices with the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework while demonstrating how sustainability can drive economic innovation and resilience.
A Unique Opportunity for Switzerland
Switzerland may be small, but its financial decisions have global repercussions. This initiative presents a chance to transform Switzerland’s financial sector into a global model for sustainability, unlocking new markets, fostering innovation, and strengthening its reputation as a forward-thinking financial hub.
The Initiative for Sustainable Finance aims to:
Introduce new legislation to regulate financial practices in line with environmental goals.
Mobilize widespread public support, with a goal of collecting 100,000 signatures by May 2026.
This is not just about policy—it’s about ensuring Switzerland’s financial industry thrives in a world increasingly driven by climate and biodiversity priorities. Aligning with these goals is not only the right thing to do but also a smart business move that positions Swiss finance as a leader in the global transition.
How Climate Bridges Will Contribute
At Climate Bridges, we are dedicated to taking an active role in making this initiative a success. Throughout the year, we will:
Organize campaigns and collective actions to raise awareness and mobilize support.
Collaborate with our networks to drive participation and amplify the voices of our community.
Highlight the critical role of women in sustainable finance through targeted activities leading up to International Women’s Day (March 8).
How You Can Make an Impact
As a member of our community, you have the power to shape the future. Here’s how you can contribute to this transformative initiative:
Sign the petition: Add your voice to the growing movement. Sign here.
Spread the word: Share the initiative with friends, family, and colleagues to build momentum.
Learn more: Dive into the details of the initiative and its goals. Read more.
By joining forces, we can ensure that Switzerland’s financial sector becomes a global leader in sustainability—driving solutions for the climate, people, and nature while unlocking long-term economic benefits.
Together, We Build Bridges
The clock is ticking to reverse climate change and biodiversity loss. Let’s seize this moment to turn sustainability into a competitive advantage and lead by example. Together, we can create a more resilient and equitable world.
Join us today and make an impact. Be part of Switzerland’s journey to global leadership in sustainable finance.