Extreme Sports Meets Microplastic Mapping
83 million people. 2,850 kilometers. One mission: The first complete microplastic mapping of Europe. And you can be a part of it.
Imagine this: In the summer of 2026, a man dives into the waters of the Danube. Before him lie 2,850 kilometers through ten countries. 60 days, during which he will swim 8–10 hours every day. Why? For 83 million people who drink water from the Danube daily.
For you. For your family. For our future.
Swimming for the Future of Water and Our Planet
❌ The Problem
- 4.2 tons of microplastics flow through the Danube every day—that is the weight of 42,000 plastic bottles. Every. Single. Day.
- 83 million people—a number larger than the population of Germany—drink this water. Maybe you are one of them?
- There is no uniform data on water quality across 10 countries. We are swimming in the dark—literally!
- EU policy cannot act without scientific evidence. Not yet!
✅ Your Support Acieves
- The first complete microplastic mapping of the Danube becomes reality—a historic moment for science.
- Your data will appear in the international scientific database and influence EU policy.
- Millions of people will be reached through the combination of extreme sports and environmental protection.
- You help secure clean water for 83 million people.
The People behind the Project
The Extreme Swimmer
Dr. Joseph Heß is a qualified industrial engineer and passionate extreme swimmer. In 2022, he swam the Rhine in record time (1,235 km), and before that, the Elbe, the Strait of Gibraltar, and numerous international challenges. Working full-time as an authorized signatory in a Berlin family business, the Danube expedition is his biggest project: 2,850 kilometers for science.
The Microplastic Pioneers
We are the microplastic detectives from Karlsruhe. For years, we have been fighting the invisible danger in our water. With the Global Map of Microplastics, we create the basis for clean water—worldwide. We take on the analysis of the 250+ water samples and map microplastics for the Global Map of Microplastics—the scientific basis for EU policy. Your support makes us stronger.
Joseph’s Motivation is Our Drive
Every morning, I drink my coffee or tea with tap water. My family drinks water from the tap. 83 million people have a right to answers. In 2022, I swam the Rhine in record time—1,235 kilometers that changed my life. Now it's time for the greatest challenge: 2,850 kilometers for science. Are you coming with me?
#MyStrokeCounts – Your Contribution for Clean Water
Every stroke by Joseph brings us closer to the answer. Every donation from you makes the mission possible. Every voice counts. Become part of the movement now:
- Donate for the Mission
- Share the campaign in your networks
- Show us your #MyStrokeCounts moment
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
1When does it start in 2026?
The mission starts in July 2026.
2Does my donation really arrive?
Yes! Wasser 3.0 is a recognized non-profit organization. 100% of your donation flows directly into the project. You will receive a donation receipt (tax receipt) and regular updates.
3How can I follow the mission?
Regular updates are already available today via Instagram and the blog. From day 1 of the expedition, you will also receive daily updates, live tracking, behind-the-scenes content, and direct access to Joseph and the team.
4What happens to the data?
All data will be entered into the international Global Map of Microplastics, are publicly accessible, and serve as the basis for EU policy and global research.
5From how many Euros does support make sense?
Every Euro counts. Even small steps are steps in the right direction. And with that, the question of value answers itself.
