Strengthening international cooperation: visit to Kaišiadorys and Jonava Municipalities promotes environmental innovation
As part of the international “Networks of Towns” project “Youth Municipal Climate Action” [YMCA], representatives from Spain, Italy, the Czech Republic, Romania and the association Mano Europa recently visited the municipalities of Kaišiadorys and Jonava in Lithuania. The visit was aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation and sharing best practices in the field of environmental protection and sustainable development.
A Collaborative Dialogue in Kaišiadorys
The visit began in the Kaišiadorys District Municipality, where the international delegation was welcomed by Mayor Šarūnas Čėsna and representatives of the municipal administration. A key highlight of the visit was a roundtable discussion focused on “Innovative Environmental Protection Practices and an Overview of Recent Developments in Kaišiadorys District.”
During the discussion, local authorities presented the sustainable initiatives being implemented across the region. These included improvements in waste management, renewable energy deployment and the introduction of green public transport solutions. Notably, participants had the opportunity to ride the municipality’s electric bus – a practical example of low-emission mobility aimed at reducing the region’s carbon footprint.
Following the discussions, the delegation visited several environmentally significant sites. These included a modern waste sorting facility and a local solar panel park – key symbols of the municipality’s dedication to building a cleaner, greener and more forward-thinking community. The guests were impressed by the tangible steps taken by the local government to integrate sustainability into everyday life and urban planning.
Exploring Sustainable Solutions in Jonava
The second part of the visit took place in Jonava District Municipality, where the YMCA project team met with Vice Mayor Povilas Beišys and various municipal department representatives. The meeting focused on the municipality’s sustainability strategy, with presentations covering both ongoing and planned initiatives.
Delegates were introduced to a variety of projects aimed at fostering sustainable urban development. These included energy efficiency programs, environmentally friendly public infrastructure upgrades and the promotion of circular economy principles.
In addition, the international guests visited Jonava’s Jeronimas Ralys Gymnasium and the Grigorijus Kanovičius Public Library. At both institutions, they were shown how sustainable practices are being integrated into educational and community spaces – ranging from energy-saving technologies to eco-conscious learning environments and sustainable cantering at public school.
Promoting a Shared Vision for a Greener Future
The visit to Kaišiadorys and Jonava was more than a formal exchange – it served as a platform for international dialogue and the sharing of practical experience. Participants from different European cities engaged in meaningful conversations, exchanged innovative ideas and explored new ways to collaborate on environmental initiatives.
The “Networks of Towns” project continues to foster unity among European communities by encouraging mutual learning and the co-creation of solutions to global challenges like climate change and environmental degradation.
This Lithuanian leg of the project highlighted not only the proactive steps local municipalities are taking toward sustainability but also the value of international partnerships in creating lasting environmental impact.
The project is co-funded by the European Commission under Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) programme.
