German adventurer and environmental campaigner Michael Walther completed a journey of approximately 650km from Halle an der Saale to the Baltic island of Usedom, combining SUP exploration with a message about sustainability and community action.
Walther set off on 18 August and arrived at Naturhafen Krummin on Usedom on 29 August. The expedition formed part of his ZERO EMISSIONS project, which uses watersports adventures to encourage engagement with nature and environmental issues.
From inland rivers to the Baltic
The route linked the Saale and Elbe with waterways through Mecklenburg’s lake district and onwards via the Peene towards the Baltic coast.
It was a journey through changing landscapes, from broad rivers to lakes and quieter waterways. The itinerary also included an approximately 20km overland connection between Waren and Dahmen, linking the Müritz area with the Kummerower See.
An expedition built around connection
Named “Connected”, the project placed meetings with local people and organisations alongside the physical challenge.
Walther aimed to highlight the work of those involved in environmental protection, community initiatives and democracy, using the journey to encourage conversation and show how individual efforts connect.
Usedom’s tourism organisation confirmed his arrival at Krummin and welcomed the expedition’s emphasis on active travel, nature and a different way of experiencing the island.
A continuing environmental mission
Founded in 2008, ZERO EMISSIONS combines watersports, education and environmental campaigning. Its 2026 programme also includes projects introducing children to nature on the water and collaborations connecting marine science with local environmental change.
For Walther, the expedition offered another way to bring those themes to a wider audience: travelling through the landscapes he wants people to understand and protect.