A virtual dive to better protect the Mediterranean
In La Londe-les-Maures, the Neptune Évolution summer exhibition combines technology and ecology for an immersive discovery of the seabed.
The summer meeting place for lovers of the Mediterranean has taken up quarters at Port Miramar, in La Londe-les-Maures. Installed in the heart of the Pôle Nautique, the Neptune Évolution exhibition offers until the end of August a sensory and educational journey into the marine depths.
Accessible to all and completely free, it is a flagship initiative of the Région Sud which transforms curiosity into ecological awareness.
Revealing to better preserve
The project, whose acronym NEPTUNE stands for "PatrimoiNE naturel et culTUrel immergé et gestioN durable de la plongéE de loisir", aims to make the invisible visible. It aims to reveal the richness and fragility of subaquatic ecosystems to better encourage their preservation, a crucial mission when faced with the jewels of the Parc national de Port-Cros and Porquerolles.
A technological and sensory immersion
No need for tanks or regulators to explore the underwater landscapes. Neptune Évolution breaks physical barriers thanks to a journey based on state-of-the-art immersive technologies. Virtual reality (VR) headsets are the highlight of the show, transporting the visitor for a 360-degree dive in the middle of the silent ballet of Posidonia meadows or to discover historical wrecks.
The experience is complemented by interactive terminals and educational panels detailing the eco-responsible actions to adopt. The power of the image is also at the heart of the setup, with exceptional photographs signed by committed artists, including photo-journalist Greg Lecoeur. His striking shots create an emotional impact, an essential prerequisite for any lasting awareness.
A wonderful awareness-raising tool
Beyond its tourist appeal, the exhibition addresses an environmental management issue. During the summer period, the coastline is under heavy pressure from boating and water activities, making Neptune Évolution a wonderful awareness-raising tool.
By showing the beauty but also the vulnerability of the seabed, the path teaches a genuine charter of good conduct: respecting anchoring areas to avoid uprooting Posidonia, strict waste management on board, passive observation of wildlife... The initiative is part of a global policy led by the Municipalité, similar to the "Je Navigue, Je Trie" operation active in the municipality's ports. Each visitor is thus invited to become an ambassador for the protection of the Mediterranean.
Please note...
The Neptune Évolution exhibition is held on the 1st floor of the Pôle Nautique (Place Georges Gras, Port Miramar) in La Londe-les-Maures, until Friday August 28.
Open Monday to Friday, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The space is closed on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free. Free parking is available nearby.
Article from the paper edition of La Gazette du Var