An article by Alicia Lejnev (Y12) et vidéo par EcoLaVersoix
“It is hard to imagine a future landfill site 100 metres from a wild river, overlooking it, and in the midst of several protected areas”
This disturbing reality may soon unfold in Chavannes-de-Bogis, a municipality neighbouring the La Châtaigneraie Campus, as the cantonal government announced a landfill construction project in September 2022. The proposed project threatens a delicate ecosystem flourishing with wildlife and vegetation, with the site being recognised as holding significant national and European value.
What does this mean for the ‘Chavannus’ (citizens of the municipality) and the area?
- Increased traffic – 75 heavy trucks navigating through the site every day, generating immense sound and air pollution, while also posing a threat to smaller vehicles, such as bicycles or children’s scooters (a significant concern considering the proximity of a children’s crèche).
- Dangerous loss of ecosystem and wildlife – the construction requires the bulldozing of a natural site fostering large numbers of protected species, such as frogs and beavers, generating irreversible loss of biodiversity in an already ecologically vulnerable zone.
- Reduced outdoor activity – this area is beloved among Chavannus for walking, cycling, and horse riding, as seen in the nearby stables. Thus, the destruction of such an affluent site would diminish leisure activities for citizens of Chavannes-de-Bogis and nearby municipalities.
(Source: EcoLaVersoix)
But perhaps the most devastating impact is the one on its nearby river, La Versoix, located just 100 metres from the planned site. As the site has a downhill gradient, all run-off from the landfill (including hazardous materials such as asbestos-based waste and bituminous material) will flow directly into the river, causing chemical pollution and particulate pollution of the water, and thus further loss of vegetation and organisms. Not to mention that La Versoix feeds into the Lac Léman, a major source for Vaud’s drinking water, so this project calls for concern over the safety of said water to human health.
So, what can we do?
EcoLaVersoix, a non-profit association based in the affected area, aims to dismantle this project through their campaigns raising awareness on the environmental and social risks posed by the government’s decision. Founded by local citizens, the organisation is building a community of volunteers, both local and national, through petitions and donations, fighting to retain the site’s historical ecosystem and beauty while providing a leisure space for all.
Among these members is Ewurama Halm, a year 12 student who joined the association as part of her IB CAS project. She regularly engages in awareness campaigns and connects students with citizens of neighbouring municipalities. Much like the other members of the association, Ewurama hopes to build a strong, united community of volunteers to prevent the project from moving forward.
So far, the association’s efforts have been effective – multiple discussions have taken place with both the Geneva & Vaud Cantons, as well as the Swiss Federal Councils – however, it is clear that more support is needed to definitively halt the landfill’s construction.
Take action!
Join EcoLaVersoix in a critical, lifelong battle – one between natural preservation and short-sighted human interests. This ecosystem is more than just land and water, as the Chavannus themselves know – it is a source of meaningful inspiration, biodiversity, and experience.
- One key step you can take is to sign their petition.
- And, you can make a donation to support their cause.
Watch their insightful video detailing the project, the threats, and how to take action: https://vimeo.com/1074700444
Visit their website and Instagram:
🌐Website – https://ecolaversoix.odoo.com/en
📷Instagram – @ecolaversoix
Thank you to Ewurama Gwamsiya Halm for sharing her experience and knowledge on the project and allowing us to raise awareness about this crucial issue.
“Ce paysage unique, encore préservé, risque de devenir une zone industrielle à ciel ouvert. Et tout cela, sous nos yeux.
Nous refusons de rester silencieux.
Soutenez notre association.
Partagez ce message.
Signez la pétition.
Protégeons ensemble ce lieu, pour aujourd’hui et pour les générations futures.
Contact : info@ecolaversoix.ch
Site web : www.ecolaversoix.ch
Lien vers la pétition : https://www.change.org/p/sauvons-la-versoix-non-à-une-immense-décharge-au-bord-d-une-rivière-sauvage“
—citation tirée directement de la description de la vidéo.