Horizon Léman 2030: A Collective Gathering for the Future of Lake Geneva

A few days ago, CIPEL hosted a morning event filled with presentations, analyses, and discussions. Nearly a hundred public officials, on-the-ground stakeholders, scientists, nonprofit organizations, and lake users gathered for the “Horizon Léman 2030” event, which was dedicated to the midterm review of the 2021–2030 action plan.

On the agenda: a film about the challenges facing Lake Geneva and CIPEL, a dynamic presentation of the midterm studies conducted as part of CIPEL’s action plan, three panel discussions, a presentation of the results of the citizen consultation, an interactive quiz with the audience, and an inspiring closing remarks by Charlène Descollonges.

This meeting served as a reminder of a fundamental reality: while major progress has been made in managing phosphorus—thanks to decades of joint efforts between France and Switzerland—new challenges are now emerging with great urgency. Climate change, invisible forms of pollution, invasive species, and the increasing vulnerability of aquatic ecosystems are profoundly altering the lake’s ecological balance and call for renewed vigilance.

As the discussions progressed, a shared conviction emerged: the preservation of Lake Geneva can only be achieved through collective, sustained, and ambitious action. The lake is not only an exceptional natural heritage site; it is also a vital resource, a shared asset, and a space for living, activities, and services for the communities and regions surrounding it. Protecting it means taking action to safeguard water quality, biodiversity, public health, the region’s appeal, and future generations.

This morning’s session also highlighted the richness of the diverse perspectives shared by the various participants. It is precisely this diversity of expertise and commitment that enables us to develop solutions commensurate with the challenges at hand.

Thank you to everyone who took part in this meeting and who, through their presence, their discussions, and their commitment, are helping to advance a shared goal: the long-term preservation of Lake Geneva’s waters.

➡️ Event materials and information: www.cipel.org/horizon-leman-2030

➡️ Report and article by Léman Bleu TV: Link