Author

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anželika Dautartė, (Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy, VMU – Faculty of Forest Sciences and Ecology, Department of Environment and Ecology)
• Prof. Dr. Vitas Marozas, (Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy, VMU – Faculty of Forest Sciences and Ecology, Department of Environment and Ecology)

Summary

Biodiversity loss and climate change pose major environmental challenges, requiring effective responses such as biodiversity conservation measures and Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). This study, conducted within the Horizon Europe project, eNaBlS, examines public awareness, perceptions, and motivation for biodiversity conservation and engagement with NBS in Lithuania based on an online survey of 157 respondents. The results show that over 90% of respondents associate biodiversity with the diversity of species and habitats, while 68% recognise biodiversity loss as a local environmental problem. Environmental concern is reflected in 86 open-ended responses highlighting ecosystem degradation and species decline. At the same time, although 62.4% of respondents support policy measures for biodiversity protection, 26.1% remain uncertain about their effectiveness. The findings also emphasise the importance of environmental competencies, particularly ecological knowledge and practical biodiversity conservation skills. The study highlights the need to strengthen environmental education and interdisciplinary competencies to translate environmental awareness into effective action for biodiversity conservation and the wider implementation of NBS.