Rhone Valley Industrial Pollution Walk: Your Practical Guide
An insightful walk dedicated to understanding industrial pollution in the Rhone Valley is scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2026. This event offers a unique opportunity to explore the region from Pierre-Bénite to Vernaison, focusing on the historical development, industrialization, and environmental challenges, particularly the impact of industrial pollutants on health and the ecosystem.
Organized by the Kaypacha Association, in collaboration with ‘Notre Affaire à Tous’ and ‘PFAS contre Terre,’ this walk will feature discussions with experts and activists who are actively involved in addressing the contamination issues and seeking reparations from chemical companies.
Event Details and Schedule
The walk will take place on Friday, March 21, 2026, starting from 8:50 AM and concluding at 5:30 PM. Participants have the option to join for the full day or a half-day (morning or afternoon sessions).
Meeting Point: Pierre-Bénite train station, 69310 Pierre-Bénite.
Arrival Point: Vernaison train station.
Duration: Approximately 13 km on foot.
What to Bring: A packed lunch will be required for all participants.
Understanding the Impact: Speakers and Topics
The walk will include five inspiring encounters designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Rhone Valley’s challenges:
- François Duchêne, researcher at ENTPE and geographer, will discuss the development of the Rhône and the ‘Vallée de la Chimie’ (Chemical Valley).
- Raphaël Santos, researcher at ENTPE and ecotoxicologist, will present his work on the impact of pollutants on aquatic organisms, such as freshwater fish.
- Representatives from SMIRIL (Syndicat Mixte des Îles et Lônes du Rhône) will highlight their efforts in preserving the sensitive natural areas of the Rhône islands and ‘lônes,’ which are crucial for biodiversity.
- Activists from Notre Affaire à Tous and PFAS contre Terre will shed light on the contamination by PFAS (per- and polyfluorofluoroalkyl substances) and the ongoing mobilization to seek justice and reparation from industrial polluters.
This event comes at a critical time, as nearly 200 citizens are taking legal action against two chemical companies responsible for discharging significant amounts of PFAS into the environment.
Route Overview
The 13 km walking route will take participants through diverse landscapes, starting from the residential areas of Pierre-Bénite, close to industrial sites. It will then proceed through Irigny and Vernaison, eventually reaching the sensitive natural area of the Rhône islands and ‘lônes.’ This itinerary offers a stark contrast between urbanized, concrete spaces and preserved natural trails within the forest, providing a holistic view of the territory.
Ticket Information
The event operates on a free pricing model, starting from 5€. This allows participants to contribute what they can afford while supporting the organizing efforts.
Reservation is required to participate in the walk. Tickets can be booked through the dedicated ticketing platform:
Contact and Further Information
For additional details or inquiries, please visit the Kaypacha Association’s platforms:
- Website: kaypacha.fr
- Facebook: Kaypacha Association
- Instagram: @kaypacha.asso
This walk is an essential event for anyone interested in environmental protection, public health, and citizen action against industrial pollution in one of France’s most significant river valleys.
Source: https://www.jds.fr/lyon/sports/balades/balade-sur-les-pollutions-industrielles-dans-la-vallee-du-rhone-1419352_A
