Environmental sustainability
The fact that tourism and nature do not have to be mutually exclusive was shown when Toggenburg Bergbahnen AG was named Landscape of the Year ‘21 and honoured by the Swiss Foundation for Landscape Conservation for its careful treatment of nature. Sustainable tourism makes nature accessible to guests without destroying it for future generations.
Resource-saving building in the mountains
Cable car infrastructures usually need to be renewed after 25 to 40 years. In 2014, Toggenburg Bergbahnen AG took this as an opportunity to collaborate with architects Herzog & de Meuron for the renovation. When planning renovations, it is important to consider the various processes involved in construction and subsequent operation. Which process steps can be made more sustainable?
The identity of the summit building on the Chäserrugg arises from the concretisation of a far-sighted vision and offers a point of reference for the desire to live a simple, authentic life in harmony with nature. Input from environmental organisations was creatively incorporated into the design.
The requirement for resource-conserving construction was taken into account in all phases of project development, construction and now operation. In order to minimise the impact on the environment, the building stands on three strip foundations, minimising its footprint. With the exception of the crane, all materials and equipment were transported up to 2,262 metres above sea level by cable car. The project was realised in close collaboration with local companies. The knowledge from the valley flowed sustainably into the goals of resource-conserving construction and the preservation of the authenticity of the landscape.
Collecting melt & rainwater
The large roof of the summit building not only has an aesthetic aspect, but also has a functional component in terms of water management at over 2,000 metres above sea level. In winter, the snow remains on the roof and melts there in the light of the mountain sun, while in the snow-free months the roof collects the rainwater. Melt water and rainwater are then fed through a gutter in the roof and through pipes into the reservoir and used for the sanitary facilities on the summit.
The natural energy of the sun is also utilised at another location. Solar panels are being installed on the roof of the new valley station of the funicular railway in Unterwasser. As there is less snow in the valley than on the summit, there is no risk of the collectors being damaged by the weight of the snow.
Focus on nature
The experiences in the Chäserrugg area are centred on the mountain nature - untamed and beautiful. Artificial attractions such as suspension bridges, viewing platforms and the like have been deliberately avoided in order to preserve the landscape and not unnecessarily obstruct it.
You will also look in vain for advertising boards in the area, as these have also been removed in order to offer guests relaxation in an almost unspoilt mountain world. This has the advantage that guests can find mental relaxation during active pursuits such as hiking and skiing. In addition, by dispensing with advertising boards and unnecessary infrastructure, the alpine landscape is preserved in its raw and natural beauty.
Landscape of the Year ‘21
The Swiss Foundation for Landscape Conservation has named the Chäserrugg/Toggenburg tourism infrastructure landscape ‘Landscape of the Year 2021’ and honoured Toggenburg Bergbahnen AG as a pioneer for building culture and charm in mountain tourism. The award honours considerate tourism and a sustainable approach to the landscape. A landscape that is worth discovering - time and time again.
Learn more about our sustainability
