The motion of Katja Christ (GLP/BS) called for a system change: instead of a “Stop advertising” sticker on the letterbox saying that unaddressed mail is not wanted, a sticker should indicate that direct mail is explicitly wanted. This should prevent unnecessary paper waste.
The Council of States rejected the motion on Tuesday by 32 votes to 12, following the majority of the Committee on Transport and Telecommunications (KVF-S). The motion, which was passed by a narrow majority in the National Council, is now off the table. The Federal Council had also asked for a no.
In the eyes of the majority of the Commission, the system change has no added value. And especially associations would find it difficult to reach the people in their village. When it comes to avoiding waste, the advertising agencies should be approached directly.
Lisa Mazzone (Greens/DE) replied that the situation was unbearable. Every day mountains of paper from the letterbox ended up directly in the trash. And home maintenance regularly removed stop advertising stickers from mailboxes. Political ads and club advertising should be thrown in despite the “Stop Advertising” sticker.
Federal Councilor Simonetta Sommaruga said that if the “Stop Advertising” sticker on the mailbox is ignored, a complaint could be filed with the Integrity Commission. According to the Bundesrat, this path must be followed consistently.
(SDA)