Switzerland, known for natural beauty like pristine lakes and majestic Alpine peaks, ranks among the world's richest countries whose plant and animal life is under the greatest threat. Environmentalists were seeking better protections for the country's biodiversity in a nationwide vote that culminated Sunday.

Switzerland may be associated with pristine natural landscapes, but environmentalists sounding the alarm over its endangered ecosystems are urging voters to back broader biodiversity protections in a referendum Sunday.

Swiss voters rejected proposals to bolster biodiversity protections as well as a pensions reform in twin referendums on Sunday, according to projected results.

In this weekend's referendum, 63 per cent of voters said no to more money for the wild and wildlife. View on euronews

Swiss voters rejected proposals to bolster biodiversity protections as well as a pensions reform in twin referendums on Sunday, according to projected results.

Switzerland, known for natural beauty like pristine lakes and majestic Alpine peaks, ranks among the world's richest countries whose plant and animal life is under the greatest threat. Environmentalists were seeking better protections for the country's biodiversity in a nationwide vote that culminated Sunday.

Environmentalists want stronger safeguards put in place to protect Switzerland's biodiversity, but many argue it is too expensive.

Voters in Switzerland have voted "no" to measures on biodiversity preservation and pension reforms, according to official initial results.Switzerland on Sunday held a popular vote on two national issues.