A green city is impossible without nature. It’s vital for us that the capital is home to a wide variety of life forms – birds, insects, lush vegetation etc.

A unique initiative changing the old tradition of meadow maintenance has been launched in Vilnius since 2022. Instead of continuous regular mowing works, the concept of unmown meadows has been chosen to be implemented in a part of the capital. Imagine a meadow where the grass grows freely and naturally and nature takes care of its own beauty. A seemingly simple solution has become a significant tool in the fight against climate change and environmental pollution.

Why was it decided not to mow a part of the grassland?

Unmown grasslands are particularly beneficial for the urban ecosystem, reducing air pollution, providing shelter for a wide range of plant and animal species, acting as natural air filters, slowing soil erosion and retaining excess water when it rains.

Unmown grasslands are much less warm in summer and help protect the city from heat islands, a phenomenon where hard surfaces in certain areas become very hot due to the low amount of vegetation and shade. On particularly hot days, lush meadows can reduce the temperature of areas by several degrees, making them cooler and more pleasant to be in.

Unmown grassland absorbs rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding. They help maintain the natural water cycle. This is particularly important in cities where asphalt and concrete prevent water from reaching the soil. Meadows can absorb up to 80% of stormwater runoff that would otherwise flow into drains.

Meadows are home to a wide variety of insects, birds and other animals. They are also home to butterflies and bees, which keep the ecosystem in balance and pollinate plants.

In order to balance the needs of the residents of the city with the benefits of sustainable hay meadows, several times a year, meadows along the river Neris, on the slopes of main streets, as well as in the sites selected by the elders with the residents will be hayed. A mowing map has been prepared this year. It shows where short lawns will be left and where the meadow will be mown several times a year.

Every blade of grass and every flower in the capital’s meadows reflects our efforts to create a healthier and greener city – as you walk along the verdant riverside, don’t forget to stop and notice how many wonderful processes are taking place in just one small patch of land.

What can you do?

By paying more attention to nature in your environment, you can also contribute to sustainable grassland mowing. If you have a lawn near your home or garden, consider leaving a part of it unmown. This will provide a haven for insects and help protect biodiversity. When you walk, be careful to respect unmown urban meadows, allowing nature to flourish naturally.