The surge in demand for more eco-friendly policies, especially in Western Europe, has been reflected by the success of the Green Party in the Swiss elections. They increased their presence in parliament by at least five seats, and for the first time ever, voters elected one of their number to the upper house, the State Council.

Robert Cramer, from the Geneva canton, was among the founders of the Swiss Green movement, and said his victory is especially sweet. Switzerland is known for its neutrality, and generally conservative outlook, so the success of the Greens shows the calls for more Earth-friendly polices have struck a chord there too.

Analysts say worries about global warming and climate change contributed to the Greens’ rise.

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