Swiss aviation pioneers Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg are working towards their 2015 goal of becoming the first human beings to fly around the world in a solar-powered aircraft (HB-SIB). They intend to use this unique adventure to show that with a clear vision we can go beyond what is currently possible, and to campaign for a more sustainable use of resources. This approach is in line with Switzerland's commitment to using increasingly clean energy, which is why the Confederation has supported the project since it began.

 It should come as no surprise that innovative projects like this one originate in Switzerland, when you consider the country's long-standing tradition of encouraging investment in the research and development of innovative products. Did you know, for example, that instant coffee, zip fasteners, Velcro, milk chocolate and the computer mouse were invented in Switzerland?

Switzerland's high innovation capability has also been recognised in various international rankings in this area, where Switzerland ranked at the top several times in recent years. Innovative projects thrive in the fertile environment of Switzerland's education system and its long tradition of cooperation between the public and private sectors. This cooperation is reflected at various levels.

Entry: By invitation/few events open to public
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