Switzerland offers cash prize to get munitions out of lakes

Switzerland is offering a cash prize of 50,000 francs (approximately £45,000) to encourage innovative ideas for the removal of munitions dumped in its lakes. The Swiss military historically used lakes such as Lucerne and Neuchatel as disposal sites for old munitions, with an estimated 3,300 tonnes in Lake Lucerne and 4,500 tonnes in Lake Neuchatel. Concerns have arisen regarding the safety of these munitions, which could pose risks of explosion and environmental contamination due to toxic substances like TNT. The Swiss government acknowledges the challenges of recovering these munitions, including poor visibility and the potential impact on sensitive ecosystems. The public can submit proposals until February next year, with winners announced in April. The recovery operation is expected to be complex and costly, potentially amounting to billions. This initiative follows a history of munitions-related incidents in Switzerland, including a catastrophic explosion in 1947 that destroyed a village and recent reports of unexploded ordnance found in rural areas. Experts suggest looking to countries like the UK, Norway, and Denmark for guidance on safely managing wartime wrecks.

- Switzerland offers a 50,000 franc prize for ideas to remove munitions from lakes.

- An estimated 3,300 tonnes of munitions are in Lake Lucerne and 4,500 tonnes in Lake Neuchatel.

- Risks include potential explosions and environmental contamination from toxic substances.

- The recovery operation is expected to be complex and costly, potentially reaching billions.

- Public proposals for solutions can be submitted until February, with winners announced in April.