| Deleted: | Added: <p>More than 100,000 trees, 10 million shrubs and 300,000 winders – this is the ambitious goal of Vilnius to create a green wave. The initiative is aimed at creating a more welcoming, sustainable and healthy environment for the capital’s residents, guests, visitors and the biodiversity around us. To achieve this goal, the capital is donating thousands of shrub seedlings for residents to plant in their yards and organising voluntary community planting events. A different meadow maintenance, has been launched in Vilnius since 2022. Instead of continuous regular mowing works, the concept of unmown meadows has been chosen to be implemented in a part of the capital. Imagine a meadow where the grass grows freely and naturally and nature takes care of its own beauty. A seemingly simple solution has become a significant tool in the fight against climate change and environmental pollution. Meadows maintained in this way reduce air pollution, are extremely beneficial for the urban ecosystem and provide a haven for a wide range of plant and animal species. Unmown meadows in Vilnius act as natural air filters, reducing soil erosion and retaining excess water when it rains and keeping the green grounds more cool during high temperatures.</p><p><strong>Bees on rooftops</strong><br />Bees, which probably are the most important urban insects, pollinate plants. They keep vegetation alive and provide food for people. Due to climate change, these little creatures are rapidly disappearing. One of the most effective ways to grow their population is to set up hives where bees can safely bring their honey. Vilnius City Administration has built two hives on the roof of the building, which can produce up to 30 kilograms of honey per year. The heights and rooftops are a natural habitat for bees, so they feel comfortable here, and in return they give flowers and sweet honey to the city.</p><p><strong>Community gardens</strong></p><p><br />In Vilnius and its surrounding areas, residents are actively encouraged to establish gardens in shared spaces, such as the courtyards of multi-apartment buildings and schools. These gardens not only beautify urban spaces but also create habitats for diverse plant and animal species. Urban gardening has flourished in neighborhoods like Antakalnis and Pilaitė, where residents have successfully gardening for their own benefits. Additionally, newly built schools are incorporating kitchen gardens, helping children learn about the benefits of gardening and sustainability from an early age. For those interested in starting a similar project, Vilnius City has developed a manual guide to support community gardening in the city. You can find it <a href="https://vilnius.lt/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2019-12-10-Miesto_dazininkyste_GIDAS.pdf">here</a>.</p> |
