From 16 September to 14 December 2025
A tale of struggle, resilience and hope.
From 16 September to 14 December 2025, the ASL invites you to the Espace Léman to discover a unique exhibition looking back at a little-known chapter in the lake's history: its slow asphyxiation between the 1960s and 2000, before being (almost) saved thanks to the determined efforts of civil society.
Through a journey rich in documents, testimonies, objects and audiovisual archive extracts, the "Léman, l'éveil d'un peuple" exhibition retraces the decisive action of associations, scientists, fishermen, journalists and institutions that helped turn the tide. At a time when new threats are hanging over the lake, the exhibition is also a reminder that every individual can, in turn, become an agent of change.
Open every day from 1pm to 6pm (closed Mondays and Saturdays)
The events below are by registration only (hats at the door).
Looking at Lake Geneva today, it's hard to imagine that some forty years ago it almost died of pollution and that, in some places, swimming was banned. Fortunately, thanks to the mobilisation of various social players, the lake was saved. This story of struggle, resilience and hope is told during the activities we are offering for families with children aged 12 and over. By taking an interactive tour of our exhibition "Léman, l'éveil d'un peuple" (Lake Geneva, the awakening of a people) and completing the "Mission: clean water!" workshop, you'll discover the importance of preserving water quality and how those who played a part in the past can inspire us to tackle today's problems.
Duration: 90 minutes
Wednesday 1er October | 14h30-16h | "Witnesses of the past, actors of the future
Intergenerational exchange on the involvement of civil society as a force for change.
Tuesday 14 October | 18h-19h30 | "Léman, une agonie surveillée" (Lake Geneva, a watched agony)
Broadcast of footage from this report shot in 1979 and discussion with Eric Burnandthe journalist behind this documentary broadcast on the RTS programme Temps Présent.
Thursday 30 October | 18h-19h30 | "Minorities as a source of change
With Robin PittetASL project manager and behaviour change specialist.
Thursday 20 November | 18h-19h30 | Creation of Net'Léman
With Amanda Melisthe initiator of the lake clean-up. How personal motivation can lead to large-scale citizen action.
Thursday 11 December | 18h-19h30 | "How can I personally get involved in protecting Lake Geneva?
With Adrien Bonnysenior project manager at ASL.
Let yourself be guided through the exhibition and discover anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories and new insights into the citizens' struggles that have marked the history of Lake Geneva. It's a chance to share ideas, ask questions and get inspired.
Looking at Lake Geneva today, it's hard to imagine that some forty years ago it almost died of pollution and that, in some places, swimming was banned. Fortunately, thanks to the mobilisation of various social players, the lake was saved. This story of struggle, resilience and hope will be told during the activity we are offering for classes 5 to 8P. Through an interactive visit to our exhibition "Léman, l'éveil d'un peuple" ("Lake Geneva, the awakening of a people") and a workshop entitled "Mission: clean water" ("Mission: clean water!"), pupils will discover the importance of preserving water quality and how the actors of the past can inspire us to tackle today's problems.
Duration: 90 minutes
