Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – a region shaped by natural beauty and an impressive lake landscape – has drawn visitors for decades. Yet Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is more than a place to relax; it is a pioneer in Europe. The focus here is on the protection and sustainable use of water resources. The districts of Mecklenburgische Seenplatte and Vorpommern-Greifswald in particular are deploying innovative technologies to preserve the quality of these unique natural resources.
A treasure in Europe's lake landscape
With more than 2,000 lakes, numerous rivers and a long stretch of Baltic coastline, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern offers one of the most varied water landscapes in Europe. The Mecklenburgische Seenplatte, the largest connected lake district in Germany, is a paradise for nature lovers and water-sports enthusiasts. Whether paddling on calm waters, sailing on the vast lakes or walking along near-natural shores – the lakes and rivers of this region offer such experiences in an abundance found almost nowhere else in Europe. Yet these waters are far more than scenic appeal.
They play a decisive role in the regional ecosystem. They are home to numerous animal and plant species and contribute to biodiversity. Beyond that, the lakes are an important factor for water supply and for the climate. Through their CO₂ storage and cooling effect they make a significant contribution to climate protection. Active protection of these valuable ecosystems is therefore not only nature conservation but also an important step towards the climate resilience of the region.
Innovation leaders in water protection
The districts of Mecklenburgische Seenplatte and Vorpommern-Greifswald see themselves as pioneers in the sustainable management of their natural water resources. With state-of-the-art technology they work not only to protect these valuable resources but also to preserve them for coming generations. Digitalisation in particular is opening up new possibilities in water protection.
We were delighted that the two districts have taken innovative paths in water monitoring within the Smart City model project (MPSC) of the German Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building. Just like us, the districts are pioneers in digital water management with their project 26.meer.zukunft.seen.
Modernising the collection of limnological data matters just as much to IKT-Ost AöR in Neubrandenburg (an institution under public law), which implemented the Smart City model project for the two districts, as it does to us. Digitalising the collection of measurement data creates entirely new scope for responding early to critical changes. A step that is of great importance not only for the protection of nature but also for tourism.
Technologies for climate-resilient water management
Several months have now passed since we joined the project 26 meer.zukunft.seen. We were able to learn a great deal while successfully commissioning our WAMO monitoring stations. Since August 2024, our WAMO station in Tollensesee has been supplying data that continuously reveals the condition of the water body – in addition to the sampling carried out by the public health authority. Little activity may be expected in a lake in winter, but just as the desert is always alive, so too is the lake in winter.
This data basis helps to understand lakes such as Tollensesee better in future and to maintain its very good condition. Advanced technology brings benefits not only for nature. The region strengthens its position as a popular destination that attracts visitors not only for its natural beauty but also for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. This responsible handling of water resources fosters a “gentle tourism” that takes account of the environment and local needs alike.
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's contribution to the future of Europe
The natural and aquatic landscape of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is a treasure that must be protected and preserved. The willingness of the districts of Mecklenburgische Seenplatte and Vorpommern-Greifswald to innovate shows that modern nature conservation and economic success are not contradictions. Rather, they go hand in hand: sustainable management of water resources creates value here for the environment, residents and visitors alike.
Together with the districts and IKT-Ost, work now continues on requirements and development options for our SWIM platform. Relieving the public health authorities and providing a broad, in-depth overview of the current condition of our surface waters lays the foundation for further measures to maintain their quality and to assess additional protective measures – without drawing on extra resources from the public health authority. The outcome is a product that gains relevance far beyond northern Germany and can be applied there too.
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern thus demonstrates that sustainable tourism and technological progress together form a strong basis for a liveable future. The combination of natural beauty and innovative thinking makes Mecklenburg-Vorpommern one of the most valuable natural regions in Europe and a model for similar regions that also wish to pursue sustainable nature and water protection.
A region with a vision?
We support districts, municipalities and tourism regions in building up digital water monitoring – from the pilot station to a shared situational picture for several authorities.
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