River Pearl PLUS the label for untouched Swiss waters

Let’s preserve natural rivers and streams!

Switzerland’s waters are in a perilous situation. Most streams and rivers have been straightened or canalised, or else fragmented by dams. Less than 4% are still in their natural state.

We must value and protect these last remaining untouched streams and rivers! Not only are they important habitats for native animals and plants – especially for threatened species. They are also important recreational areas for us humans.

With the River Pearl PLUS label, we recognize untouched streams and rivers, as well as the commitment of local people.

More about the label

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I’m interested in certification

Are you keen to see your free-flowing river or natural stream get the recognition it deserves? Find out more here.

About the certification process

I’d like to do something for a water body

Do you want to do something to preserve our valuable water bodies? Find out more here.

How to become active

We have decided to apply for certification

Testimonials

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The Rein da Sumvitg on the Greina plain, © WWF Switzerland

13. July 2026

Streams as a climate archive: what alpine watercourses tell us about our climate

Streams and rivers do more than just carry water. They are a barometer of how carbon is stored in the landscape or released. Alpine river pearls play a particular role, capturing CO2 and thereby helping to affect the climate far beyond their catchment area. That makes their protection not just an ecological necessity, but also an issue of climate policy.