Caring for Vilnius City’s Rivers
- Client: Darnu Group
- Year: Since 2020
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Services:
- Integrated communication
About the project
The majority of Darnu Group’s real estate development projects, such as Paupys, Verslo Trikampis, and Sakai, are located near Vilnius’ two main rivers—the Neris and Vilnia.
The company’s business philosophy emphasizes creating value for the city and its residents. As part of this vision, Darnu Group recognized the importance of ensuring that these rivers are clean, well-maintained, and vibrant. This commitment led to a long-term social initiative aimed at both protecting these waterways and educating the public on their significance.
In partnership with the Lithuanian Society of Hydrobiology, Darnu Group conducted comprehensive scientific studies on the Vilnia (2021) and Neris (2023) rivers within Vilnius’ city limits. These studies evaluated the ecological state of the water bodies, surveyed their flora and fauna, and identified key problem areas. Guided by the findings, Darnu Group initiated significant efforts to improve the conditions of these rivers and foster greater public awareness.
Over three years, from 2020 to 2022, divers removed more than 10 tonnes of rubbish from the Vilnia River. In 2023, with the involvement of children from the Paupys district, nesting boxes were built and installed along the banks of the Vilnia to provide safe habitats for the resident lapwings.
To highlight the findings and raise awareness, Darnu Group organized two interactive exhibitions. The Vilnia was showcased in the Paupys district, while the Neris exhibition was displayed near the White Bridge, presenting the research findings and the ecological importance of these rivers in an engaging and playful way. Public outreach efforts included periodic school visits by Kęstutis Skrupskelis, a Darnu Group consultant on river initiatives. During these visits, nearly 1,000 students from 20 schools in Vilnius learned about the rivers' ecological significance. In addition, Darnu Group organized educational sessions and lectures for public authorities, including Vilnius City Council and the Environmental Protection Agency, to further emphasize the need for collective action in preserving these natural resources.
In 2024, Darnu Group introduced two self-guided educational routes along the Neris and Vilnia rivers. These routes allowed visitors to explore the rivers’ ecosystems and historical importance. The initial group excursions attracted more than 200 participants, and to date, over 6,000 people have explored the routes independently using the instructions available on the portal marsrutai.darnugroup.lt.
Through these initiatives, Darnu Group has demonstrated its dedication to the preservation and appreciation of Vilnius’ rivers. By combining environmental action with public education, the company has not only enhanced the ecological health of these waterways but also strengthened the community’s connection to its natural surroundings. This commitment reflects Darnu Group’s broader philosophy of creating meaningful value for the city and its residents.
