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.

More than 63 per cent of voters rejected initiative that aimed to boost public funding to encourage farmers to let the wild develop more.

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

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.