Written by: Anželika Dautartė, VMU

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Learning in and with nature

On 9 May 2025, during the 31^st International Scientific-Practical Conference Human and Nature Safety 2025 at Vytautas Magnus University, a field seminar titled “Biodiversity and Nature-Based Solutions in Varniai Regional Park” was organised as part of the ᴇNᴀBʟS project (Education and Nature-Based Solutions: enable society to bend the curve for biodiversity).

The seminar gathered students, lecturers, researchers, and nature conservation professionals to explore the biodiversity and ecological importance of lowland and semi-natural grasslands – habitats that are among the richest in species diversity but also among the most threatened in Europe. Participants were introduced to the plant communities that characterise these ecosystems, the conservation efforts already implemented in the region, and the persistent challenges faced in managing and protecting grasslands.

Throughout the day, the group visited the Varniai Regional Park Visitor Centre, walked the Debesnai Nature Trail, explored the lakeshore meadows surrounding Lake Biržulis, and concluded with a hike to the summit of Medvėgalis Mound, where sweeping views of the Žemaitija landscape offered a moment of reflection on the interconnectedness of people and nature.

This seminar reflected the values of ᴇNᴀBʟS by integrating scientific insight, local practice, and immersive learning in nature. The experience demonstrated how Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) can be understood and appreciated not only in theory but also through lived, place-based engagement. Participants gained not only ecological knowledge but also inspiration to promote biodiversity-friendly approaches in their own contexts.

By stepping outside the traditional classroom and into a living landscape, this seminar encouraged deeper ecological awareness, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility for nature conservation – all essential elements of education for sustainability.