Annual reports

Studies and findings on man-made disasters

Green Cross Switzerland has started at an early stage to support the production of theoretical knowledge on various crisis situations in addition to practical humanitarian aid. One goal is to increase social awareness of man-made disasters and to raise awareness of human emergencies on a scientific level. In addition, scientifically sound knowledge serves as a basis for concrete approaches to solutions. Through its collaboration with internationally renowned researchers, Green Cross Switzerland has highlighted the problems of man-made disasters in various studies and reports. We would like to make some of these publications, which have been produced in the past with the support of Green Cross Switzerland, available to a broad public. Below you will find a selection of studies and reports that can be downloaded free of charge.

One study examined civilian exposure to carcinogens in munitions and the resulting cancer risks to civilians on the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico following military exercises from 1947 to 1998.

Millions of people continue to be affected by radiation exposure, according to a study on the health effects of uranium mine sites. The study was initiated by Green Cross Switzerland in collaboration with Prof. Jonathan Samet, Dean of the Colorado School of Public Health, USA.

In addition, within a Green Cross dinner on June 6, 2018, dedicated to contamination from uranium mine sites, guest speaker Chief Oren Lyons Jr, spiritual tribal leader of the Turtle Clan of the Iroquois Confederacy (Faithkeeper of the Turtle Clan), was present. He presented the view of indigenous peoples.

Environmental Reports 2013-2016

To promote knowledge about radioactive, chemical, and other types of pollution and their effects on humans and the environment, we have published several environmental reports in collaboration with the Blacksmith Institute (now Pure Earth). These reports document the nature and degree of pollution, its effects on humans and the environment, and appropriate remediation measures. Here is a selection of some of these reports. If you are interested, you can also access environmental reports from further back in time by emailing us.

Gorbatschows unermüdliche Einsatz für eine friedlichere Welt

Die Geschichte von Green Cross ist eng mit dem ehemaligen, verstorbenen Präsidenten der Sowjetunion Michail S. Gorbatschow verbunden. 1987 schlug er eine Organisation nach dem Vorbild des Internationalen Roten Kreuzes vor, das sich Themen wie Umweltschutz, Sicherheitspolitik und nukleare Abrüstung widmen sollte. Nach der Gründung von Green Cross International übernahm Gorbatschow als erster Präsident die 1993 gegründete Stiftung. Vor allem die nukleare Abrüstung und die Eindämmung chemischer Waffen blieben ein Kernanliegen seiner weiteren Laufbahn auch im Auftrag von Green Cross. Anliegend finden Sie zwei ausgewählte, historische Plädoyers Gorbatschows für den Einsatz nuklearer und chemischer Waffenabrüstung.

A brief overview of the history of chemical weapons can be found here.