Big Jump 2026

On July 12, 2026, people all over Europe will jump into rivers, lakes, and seas during “The Big Jump”. By jumping into local waters, a powerful and symbolic gesture is made to take urgent action against water pollution, for better water policy in response to climate change, and for the restoration of our freshwater ecosystems. After all, freshwater is the basis of everything that lives; freshwater stands for success in nature and agriculture (allies in this action). In Lievegem, the Schipdonk Committee and Natuurpunt have also joined forces. They call on everyone to do their bit as a citizen: better collection, storage, and responsible use of rainwater, preventing waste, retaining water in gardens by creating a humus layer, … At 14:30, we will gather at the Sas on the Schipdonk Canal in Lievegem (intersection Schipdonkkanaal - Kanaal Gent-Bruges). A brief explanation will be given there about the purpose of the action. Subsequently, there will be the possibility to swim locally and under supervision in the Schipdonk Canal. We advise everyone to wear water shoes. De Big Jump in Lievegem is organized by Natuurpunt Lievegem and the Schipdonk Committee, under the wings of Good Planet vzw.