The sustainable use and protection of ecosystems are critical to our collective future. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 15, “Life on Land,” underscores the urgency of preserving, restoring, and responsibly managing land ecosystems. Forests cover 30.7 percent of the Earth’s surface and are vital not only for food security and habitat but also for fighting climate change and preserving biodiversity. Yet each year, 13 million hectares of forest are lost. In dryland areas, land degradation has already led to the desertification of 3.6 billion hectares.

For the Gstaad region – renowned for its organic farming and alpine agriculture – this global goal has local significance. Here in the Saanenland, we’ve long embraced sustainable practices to safeguard our unique natural environment. Organic agriculture plays a leading role: since 1993, many local farms have converted to organic methods. By avoiding chemical fertilisers and pesticides, our farmers actively protect soil quality and biodiversity, while promoting healthier food and strengthening the integrity of local produce.

Equally important is our alpine farming tradition. Seasonal grazing and cheese production help preserve our cultural landscape and support plant and animal species that have become rare elsewhere. Across the still numerous alpine pastures, cheese is made daily – sometimes even in the presence of visitors, who are invited to watch and taste the results. This tradition is more than a livelihood: it is a cultural heritage worth protecting.

Guests are deeply drawn to this balance of tradition, nature, and culture. Their appreciation contributes not only to overnight stays but also to broader value chains – such as the delivery of milk to local dairies, which produce cheeses served in hotels or sold in shops to visiting guests.

Preserving these precious ecosystems is a shared responsibility. Through sustainable practices and strong environmental awareness – both in the community and across industries – we can ensure that Gstaad remains a place where people and nature thrive together. Programmes such as “Swisstainable” by Switzerland Tourism, local sustainability workshops, and other initiatives offer platforms to share knowledge and strengthen community engagement.

The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. Every step counts. By working together and supporting sustainable projects, we can help secure a viable future for Gstaad – and contribute to a broader movement of responsible living.

Sustainability is a core principle of Gstaad Saanenland Tourism’s destination strategy. With reference to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we look closer at how these global objectives can inspire responsible action here in the Saanenland. From international best practices to local initiatives, the aim is to show what’s possible – and encourage more businesses in the region to take their first step by joining the Swisstainable programme of the Swiss Tourism Federation.

UN Sustainable Development Goal 15 – Life on Land
Protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems; manage forests sustainably; combat desertification; halt and reverse land degradation; and stop biodiversity loss. Maintaining and using biodiversity sustainably is essential for social and economic development. Learn more at www.eda.admin.ch

BY PATRICK BAUER, HEAD OF DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT & SUSTAINABILITY, GSTAAD SAANENLAND TOURISM