With the fifth presentation of the Undine Award, the Josef Wund Foundation once again honored people and projects that open up new perspectives on water through creativity, commitment, and innovation. Around 150 guests gathered at Café am See NIL in Stuttgart to celebrate the award winners and exchange ideas on current challenges and opportunities surrounding the vital resource of water.

The Award Winners

Awards were presented in the categories Source of Life, Habitat, and Joy of Life. A total of €60,000 in prize money was awarded.

Source of Life

Decentralized Water Retention in Forests
Baden-Württemberg Forest Research Institute (FVA)

The project strengthens forests as natural water reservoirs and contributes to addressing the impacts of drought and heavy rainfall. In 27 selected municipalities, water retention measures are being implemented and scientifically monitored. The jury particularly praised the combination of scientific expertise and practical applicability, as well as the project's potential to establish successful measures as a permanent part of forest management and statewide funding programs.

Habitat

Neckarinsel e.V.

On a previously inaccessible island in the River Neckar, a temporary open space for community, knowledge sharing, and recreation is being created in the heart of Stuttgart. Through the collaboration between Neckarinsel e.V. and the Neckar Waterways and Shipping Authority, the river is being reimagined beyond its role as a federal waterway, becoming a place for experiences, dialogue, and learning for the local community. The jury particularly recognized the innovative approach of redefining water as a public living space and creating lasting momentum for vibrant urban waterfronts through diverse participation and event formats.

Joy of Life

(In)Finite
Prof. Anna Kubelík

The project was developed in collaboration with UNESCO’s World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP) and has already been presented at numerous international conferences and events. At its center is a water-filled sphere, a so-called "Talking Object," which is passed from person to person, making the fragility of our world tangible through direct experience. The jury particularly praised the innovative approach of using art and personal interaction to raise awareness of water and inspire dialogue about its importance to society.

Special Project of the Fifth Award Ceremony

Ocean RescYou

To mark the fifth presentation of the Undine Award, the Josef Wund Foundation supported the special project "Ocean RescYou." Developed by imBlick Child and Youth Services, the program is designed for so-called Care Leavers—young adults who have spent part of their lives in residential child and youth care.

As part of a three-month personal development program, participants relocate to the Baltic Sea or the Schlei region. Water becomes the focal point of their personal growth: adventure-based therapeutic activities on and around the water, professional mentoring, and practical work experience with local businesses help strengthen self-confidence, self-efficacy, and future prospects.

An Evening of Exchange

The award ceremony took place on June 11, 2026, at Café am See NIL in Stuttgart. The event was hosted by Julia Ochs and Christoph Sonntag, with musical accompaniment by the Tobias Becker Big Band. During the dinner on the lakeside terrace that followed, guests took the opportunity to exchange ideas on current water-related issues, the award-winning projects, and new ideas for the future.