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Urban Swimmer Discovers Hidden Ecosystem in Zurich Moat
5 Sep
Summary
- A commuter swims 1.35 km through Zurich's old moat to reach work.
- Underwater photos revealed fish, brown trout, and old stone walls.
- Over 500 cigarette butts were collected along a 30-meter stretch.
Mischa Gurov, an IT professional in Zürich, has adopted an unusual commute: swimming 1.35 kilometers through the city's historic Schanzengraben moat. This daily swim offers a unique perspective on urban nature. Using an underwater camera, Gurov discovered a vibrant ecosystem, including various fish and rarer brown trout, indicating good water quality.
However, his discoveries also highlighted significant pollution issues. Gurov recently collected over 500 cigarette butts from a mere 30-meter stretch of the moat, a stark reminder of the environmental challenges. He advocates for stricter regulations and heavier fines to combat littering, which costs Switzerland an estimated CHF 53 million annually in cleanup.
Gurov plans a symbolic protest swim on September 18, 2026, wearing a helmet adorned with discarded cigarette butts to draw attention to the issue. He emphasizes that protecting Zürich's waterways, which also supply drinking water and recreational spaces, is a shared responsibility for residents, businesses, and authorities alike.
