03
Where should wind turbines be constructed in Switzerland?
A study by researchers at ETH Zurich shows for the first time how a relaxation of Swiss spatial planning policy would affect the locations of wind turbines. If the aim is to have as few wind turbines as possible in the Alps and in Switzerland in general, it would be worth considering using windy agricultural areas on the western Swiss Plateau.
What drives deforestation in Switzerland?
Deforestation is prohibited in Switzerland, as in most European countries. Nevertheless, exemptions from the ban on forest clearing may be granted, mostly for infrastructure purposes (e.g. related to transportation, energy, water construction/supply, quarry sites, etc.). However, surprisingly little is known about the drivers of deforestation outside of the tropics and developing countries, where agriculture may not be the main driver.
How much do farmers depend on cash crop income?
A new publication in the Journal of Land Use Science highlights the dependency of four villages in northeastern Madagascar on cash crop income.