Sustainable Living in Zurich

This overview provides practical guidance on how to get around Zurich sustainably, reduce waste, use resources responsibly, and make mindful decisions.

Getting around Zurich sustainably is super easy, and it’s a great way to explore the city. If you enjoy being out- doors, cycling is one of the best options. You can find several bike rentals with pick-up and drop-off locations across Zurich, so you can get from A to B quickly. If you prefer having your own bike, local bike flea markets often offer affordable second-hand options. Zurich also has plenty of bike parking and well-marked bike lanes, making cycling smooth.

Bike options in Zurich

If biking is not for you, Zurich’s tram network is an excellent alternative. Trams are frequent, reliable, and connect most parts of the city. With the ZVV app, you can easily plan routes and buy tickets in just a few clicks.

ZVV network map 

For travel within Switzerland, trains are the best option. The SBB network is efficient and very reliable, and connections can be planned online or in the app. Tip: if you are travelling in a group, it is worth checking for group passes, which can be more affordable than individual tickets. 

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB)

Planning a weekend trip? Zurich is perfectly connected to the rest of Europe by train, including comfortable night train connections. Long-distance buses are another budget-friendly and lower-emission option, and Zurich’s bus station is conveniently located next to the main train station.

Night trains (SBB)

Recycling in Switzerland is part of everyday life, and Zurich makes it easy to join in. Paper, glass, PET bottles, plastic, and electronics are all collected separately through recycling points or scheduled pickup days based on your postcode. The City of Zurich app even offers reminder notifications for collection dates, so you don’t have to keep track yourself. Recycling also helps you save money, since household waste must be disposed of in official garbage bags that you buy at supermarkets. The more you recycle, the fewer bags you need.

Waste calendar and recycling information

Before throwing something away, consider repairing it instead. Repair cafés are friendly community events where people fix items together, from electronics to clothing. Zurich also provides circular economy tips and even an AI assistant for questions about sharing and repairing.

AI assistant

Eating sustainably at UZH is simple. Cafeterias always offer a vegetarian option, often with vegan meals too. Rämi59 is especially popular for vegan cuisine, and many cafeterias also have salad bars if you want to mix and match. Menus and locations are available online and in the UZH Now app. If you are having take-away food, reusable containers and cups with a deposit system are a convenient way to avoid single-use packaging. You can also bring your own lunchbox, and microwaves are available in most university buildings.

Canteens at UZH

Zurich also offers several ways to reduce food waste. There are groups who redistribute surplus food for free, and many supermarkets, bakeries, and restaurants offer discounts on items in the evening or sell left-over packages through apps. Some shops even specialize in selling food that could not be sold the day before. And don’t forget to refill. Swiss tap water is excellent and available almost everywhere, including public drinking fountains across Zurich. Carrying a reusable bottle is an easy way to save money and reduce plastic waste.

Sustainable food tips

Zurich has four real seasons, so heating and ventilation matter. A simple best practice is “Stosslüften,” which means opening windows wide for a short time instead of leaving them tilted open. This keeps indoor air fresh, helps prevent mold, and avoids wasting heating energy. Turning the heating down slightly and wearing a sweater is another easy way to save energy without sacrificing comfort. In many apartment buildings, washing machines are shared. Air-drying clothes in the drying room (“Trocknungsraum”) is common and much more energy-efficient than using a tumble dryer.

Zurich is a great city for second-hand shopping, whether you are looking for furniture, kitchen items, clothes, or something unique. “Brockenhäuser” (second-hand stores) can be found all over the city and often accept donations as well. Many shops also support social causes. If you enjoy vintage style, you will find plenty of retro clothing stores in Kreis 4 and Kreis 5.

Flea markets are another fun way to shop sustainably, and online community groups are great for exchanging or giving away items for free. You can also find second-hand books online or swap books through public bookcases around Zurich.

If you want to meet new people while getting involved in meaningful activities, UZH offers several student initiatives focused on sustainability. It is a great way to connect with others and contribute to projects that make a difference.

Student initiatives at UZH related to sustainability

Zurich’s “Gemeinschaftszentren” (community centers) are also worth exploring. They host a wide range of events and activities, from flea markets to gardening projects, and are a great way to connect with local neighborhoods.

Community centers

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