Bundesplatz / Federal Square
The Bundesplatz. Take a moment, turn on your axis and look around. Fifty years ago, cars stood here, close together. A big car park. Today it is a place open to all. A place where people voice their political concerns. Again and again, thousands of women filled the square demanding equality. It is a place where concerts take place. And every Saturday, dozens of market stalls from the region offer their products for sale here directly.
The Bundesplatz is not only where the Federal Palace stands, but also where the Swiss National Bank and the Bernese Cantonal Bank are located. With their money, banks and other investors determine what kind of infrastructure and economy is financed. How do we make the transition to a future without fossil fuels? How do we ensure that human rights and the environment are protected when financing large-scale projects?
Speaking of energy: the city of Bern is already building a CO2-free energy supply. The Federal Palace is connected to the city's district heating network and is heated with renewable energy. With its commitment to energy, the city of Bern was awarded the "Energy City Gold" label and became Energy City Swiss Champion in 2019.
Discover a direct reference to the following SDGs:
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
Reduce inequality within and among countries
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
Take immediate action to combat climate change and its impacts
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development
Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development
