European Green Belt Day in Lithuania: People and Nature Together

Background & Location

The European Green Belt Days celebration in Lithuania took place on September 23, 2025, in the Šilutė District, near the Nemunas Delta Regional Park — one of the country’s most valuable natural areas. The event was organized by the Lithuanian Countryside Tourism Association. Bringing together tourism professionals, local hosts, and nature enthusiasts, the day highlighted the unique ecosystems of the Green Belt, where migrating birds, wetlands, and cultural heritage meet, showcasing how people and nature can thrive side by side.

Objective

The main objective of the celebration was to promote the vision of the European Green Belt Initiative — connecting people and nature across Europe through sustainable development and conservation. The celebration aimed to raise awareness about responsible travel and encourage tourism practices that protect fragile ecosystems along Lithuania’s Green Belt. By presenting the project “Mitigating the Negative Impacts of Mass Tourism on Ecosystems along the Lithuanian Green Belt”, participants learned how local tourism providers can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to biodiversity preservation. The desired outcome was to inspire cooperation between tourism stakeholders, strengthen understanding of eco-friendly tourism principles, and foster a sense of shared responsibility for maintaining the natural and cultural values of the European Green Belt.

Approach & Results

The celebration brought together a diverse group of participants — local tourism providers, conservation experts, and community representatives — to exchange ideas and inspiration about sustainable travel along Lithuania’s Green Belt. The day began with insightful presentations introducing the project “Mitigating the Negative Impacts of Mass Tourism on Ecosystems along the Lithuanian Green Belt” and continued with discussions on how countryside guesthouses can adopt eco-friendly practices. Participants explored real examples of responsible tourism, from energy-saving solutions to supporting biodiversity through nature-friendly management.

A true highlight was the guided excursion to the Ventė Cape Bird Ringing Station — one of Europe’s most famous bird migration hotspots. Attendees observed the bird ringing process, learned about migratory routes, and discovered how conservation work supports both wildlife and local communities.

The event concluded with lively reflections and a shared sense of motivation to protect the European Green Belt’s natural heritage — celebrating the harmony between people and nature.

This European Green Belt Day celebration is part of an EU-funded BESTbelt project. 

Photo gallery of the European Green Belt Days celebration