2005 - 2006 - Pinsent Masons Water Yearbook 2012

SWITZERLAND PART 2: COUNTRY ANALYSIS
Switzerland
Sewerage runs like clockwork
The proportion of the population connected to sewerage services increased from 70% in 1980 to 90%
in 1990. 180 out of the 900 municipal sewage treatment works are regarded as being in need of
upgrading or replacement. By 1995, most sewage treatment works were seen as being UWWTD
compliant, even though many lakes will fall into the sensitive waters category. 97-98% of urban
domestic sewerage is treated, and 97% of this is to at least secondary standard. Switzerland seeks to
have 100% of urban effluents treated in the medium term. 55% of these effluents were recovered for
agricultural use in 1994. From 1990 to 2002, public spending on wastewater management has varied
between CHF1.5 and 1.9 billion. Since 2000, it has been in the CHF1.7–1.8 billion per annum range.
Sewerage and sewage treatment
1980 1990 1995 2000
Tertiary 41% 62% 71% 82%
Secondary 32% 28% 23% 14%
Primary 0% 0% 0% 0%
Sewerage only N/A 1% 0% 1%
Not connected N/A 9% 6% 3%
Water services remain a public sector concern
The municipalities own all sewerage services, which were typically formed between 1950 and 1970.
There are some corporatised water services, in that they were formed prior to 1950 and can have
some private capital. However, the water and sewerage sectors are seen as parts of the
municipalities and in 1996, Switzerland reaffirmed that privatisation is not to be considered in the
foreseeable future. Indeed, existing shares of water concerns in private hands continue to be
purchased by the municipalities. Water tariffs are intended to recover 60-80% of costs, while
sewerage service charges seek to cover at least 90% of costs so as to encourage preventative
measures
192 Pinsent Masons Water Yearbook 2005 – 2006