Photo: Benjamin Heberling
Researcher from Furtwangen University Swims the 1083 Kilometre-Long Elbe River
Chemist and university professor Dr. Andreas Fath has launched his latest project, combining extreme sports with science: Starting in Smirice in the Czech Giant Mountains, Fath began his journey to swim the entire Elbe River, a feat he aims to complete in 25 days. Fath will swim 1083 kilometres, reaching the river's mouth in Cuxhaven on 10th September.
Prof. Dr. Andreas Fath, internationally known as the “swimming professor” from Furtwangen University, has already swum the Rhine, the Tennessee River, and the entire Danube to raise awareness about water pollution from microplastics. This endeavour is not about setting a new athletic record, but about drawing significant attention to the importance of clean water. During his journey, Fath and his team will not only take daily water samples but also engage in extensive awareness campaigns on water conservation. Workshops, seminars, and press events along the river will help raise awareness on this crucial topic. On his way to the North Sea, Fath will pass through cities like Dresden, Magdeburg, and Hamburg.
Professor Fath will spend around eight hours a day in the water over the next 25 days. Using a special membrane on his wetsuits, he will collect additional samples to detect microplastics in the Elbe while swimming.
For his "PureElbe" project, Fath's non-profit organisation H2Org is collaborating with the alliance “Plastic-Free Nature.” The project is supported by sponsors, including Furtwangen University and companies such as Hansgrohe and Arburg.
The entire journey along the Elbe can be followed on the project website External link opens in a new window:www.pureelbe.org – including a map detailing the exact locations and kilometres swum.