Switzerland: Repair Grants to Boost Sustainability & Cut Waste

Zurich is pioneering a shift in consumer culture, moving away from a disposable mindset towards a “repair-first” approach. As of 2026, the city will offer financial incentives – up to 50% of repair costs, capped at 100 Swiss francs annually per person – to encourage residents to fix broken items instead of replacing them. This initiative builds on successful models already implemented in several Swiss Romandy communes, like Prilly and Vevey, which offer even more substantial repair subsidies.

The Zurich program, backed by a 3.8 million franc pilot project spanning three years, isn’t just about environmentalism. it’s about recognizing the economic value in extending the lifespan of products. The city anticipates facilitating around 40,000 repairs over the three-year period, potentially saving approximately 960 tonnes of CO2 emissions – equivalent to the production of thousands of smartphones or jeans. This demonstrates a tangible reduction in the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing and disposal.

Although Zurich is the first major Swiss city to introduce a financial bonus for repairs, the concept is gaining traction nationally. Previous attempts at a federal-level repair bonus in 2023 were unsuccessful, but organizations like the Foundation for Consumer Protection continue to advocate for a nationwide scheme, pointing to the success of similar programs in Austria, where over 840,000 repairs have been supported since 2022. The “Nous sommes le futur” (We are the future) initiative, launched in 2020, further underscores the growing national focus on energy efficiency, climate protection, and environmental sustainability.

Central to Zurich’s plan is an online platform, currently under development by Entsorgung + Recycling Zürich, that will list participating repair shops – including electronics stores, tailors, and small businesses. This digital marketplace streamlines the repair process, allowing residents to easily find qualified artisans and redeem their repair bonuses. The platform is expected to launch in early 2026, with full functionality available by summer.

Initially, the Zurich bonus will cover repairs for electrical appliances and textiles. However, the city has indicated a willingness to expand the program to include other product categories – such as bicycles, furniture, and shoes – depending on the pilot project’s success. This adaptability is crucial for fostering a truly circular economy, where products are designed for durability, repairability, and reuse.

The introduction of the repair bonus coincides with a change in Zurich’s waste management system. The city is phasing out free waste disposal coupons, previously allowing residents to discard up to 400 kilograms of bulky waste annually. This shift signals a clear message: repairing is now incentivized, while disposal is becoming less convenient and potentially more costly.

• What is the Zurich repair bonus? Zurich residents can receive up to 100 Swiss francs per year to cover half the cost of repairing broken items.
• Which items are currently covered? The initial program focuses on electrical appliances and textiles.
• Where can I find a repair shop? Zurich is developing an online platform listing participating businesses.
• Are other Swiss cities offering similar incentives? Yes, several communes in Swiss Romandy, like Prilly and Vevey, already have repair subsidy programs.