Written by: Anželika Dautartė, VMU

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The students from the Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Applied Ecology are playing an active role in an amazing project!

Called “Education and Nature-Based Solutions: Enable Society to Bend the Curve for Biodiversity (ᴇNᴀBʟS)”, the project is all about biodiversity conservation and implementing Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the development of Living Labs, which bring together the public and relevant stakeholders in a collaborative effort to promote sustainable development and address environmental challenges.

One of the most exciting developments in the Lithuanian Living Laboratory is the green infrastructure of the Academy of Agriculture of Vytautas Magnus University, located on the campus of the Academy. This incredible space is not only a repository of botanical diversity, but also a unique opportunity for understanding and preserving the value of this diversity through science, education and community participation. The Bachelor students have been thrilled to examine the current state of biodiversity, evaluate existing species and their conservation status, and delve into how this remarkable space could become a shining example not only for theoretical knowledge transfer but also for tangible public involvement in biodiversity conservation.

Students got to grips with the current situation, delved into the principles of ecosystem sustainability and discovered ways to make the most of the city’s green infrastructure to demonstrate biodiversity conservation and nature-based solutions. They also explored the exciting possibilities for new ecological installations such as natural biotopes, pollination gardens or artificial habitats for endangered species. And they discussed how the public can play an active role in these solutions, from education and volunteering to concrete actions such as cultivation of trees or biodiversity monitoring programmes.

On 30^th October, the Agricultural Academy hosted a workshop for students with the objective of identifying strategies for enhancing public awareness of the significance of biodiversity and fostering responsible conduct towards the natural environment. Dialogues with various stakeholders – local communities, NGOs and regional authorities – helps to identify key needs and draw up action plans to involve the public in the Living Lab activities. This inspiring space is becoming a great example of how to combine science, practical application of knowledge and active community participation to achieve long-term environmental goals!

It was a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their practical skills and design solutions that can help ensure biodiversity conservation. Meanwhile, public engagement is a great way to promote long-term care for nature, strengthen the bond between people and the environment and foster a responsible attitude towards biodiversity conservation. The Living Lab in Lithuania is becoming not only a centre for research and education, but also a community space where biodiversity conservation is a common goal that aims to unite science, education and society – how exciting is that?