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 aimed to strengthen cross-border cooperation and facilitate the exchange of best practices in 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 municipal administration representatives. A key moment of the visit was a roundtable discussion on “Innovative Environmental Protection Practices and an Overview of Recent Developments in Kaišiadorys District.”

During the discussion, local authorities showcased the sustainable initiatives being implemented in the region, including improvements in waste management, the deployment of renewable energy sources, and the introduction of green public transport solutions. One notable experience was a ride on the municipality’s electric bus—a practical example of low-emission mobility aimed at reducing the region’s carbon footprint.

After the discussions, the delegation toured several environmentally significant sites, including a state-of-the-art waste sorting facility and a local solar panel park—both strong symbols of the municipality’s commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and more forward-thinking community. The visitors expressed their appreciation for the concrete steps taken by the local government to embed sustainability into daily life and urban development.

Exploring Sustainable Solutions in Jonava

The second leg of the visit took place in the Jonava District Municipality, where the YMCA project team met with Vice Mayor Povilas Beišys and representatives from various municipal departments. The meeting centered on the municipality’s sustainability strategy, featuring presentations on both current initiatives and future plans.

Delegates were introduced to a range of projects designed to promote sustainable urban development. Highlights included energy efficiency programs, upgrades to public infrastructure with a focus on environmental friendliness, and efforts to advance 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.