The picturesque lakes of Switzerland, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery, conceal a dark secret. For decades, the Swiss military used these lakes as dumping grounds for old munitions, leaving behind a toxic legacy that poses significant risks to the environment and human safety.
Lakes Lucerne, Thun, and Neuchatel are estimated to hold a staggering 8,300 tons of munitions, with some lying at depths of up to 220 meters. The dumped ammunition includes explosives, bombs, and other hazardous materials, which could potentially contaminate the water and soil.
The Swiss defense department has acknowledged the gravity of the situation and is seeking innovative solutions to retrieve the munitions safely. To this end, they have launched a competition offering 50,000 francs (ÂŁ45,000) in prize money for the best ideas.
The challenge is daunting, with experts warning of the risks of explosion and environmental damage. Retired geologist Marcos Buser, who has advised the government on this issue, emphasizes the dangers of the dumps and suggests seeking expertise from countries like the UK, Norway, or Denmark, which have experience in dealing with similar problems.
The removal process is expected to be long and costly, but the Swiss government is determined to address this legacy of its ‘armed neutrality’ defense strategy. The public can submit their ideas until February next year, and a panel of experts will anonymously judge the entries. The three winners will be announced in April, and their ideas could serve as the basis for further research or clarification.
This is not the first time Switzerland’s military has faced criticism for its handling of munitions. In 1947, a massive blast in the alpine village of Mitholz killed nine people and destroyed the village, highlighting the risks of improperly stored ammunition. More recently, the military revealed that 3,500 tons of unexploded ammunition buried in the mountain overlooking Mitholz was not safe, leading to a lengthy and complex cleanup operation.
As Switzerland grapples with the consequences of its past actions, the country is also facing new challenges. Reports of civilians finding unexploded ordnance in the countryside increased by 12% last year, and the melting of glaciers due to climate change is revealing spent and live ammunition left behind from high-altitude training exercises.
The Swiss government’s initiative to remove the munitions from its lakes is a crucial step towards addressing the country’s toxic legacy. With the help of innovative solutions and international expertise, Switzerland can work towards a safer and more sustainable future.