Vilnius plans to use less road salt to protect trees

Vilnius plans to spread less salt on its streets this winter to protect trees, the city’s chief ecologist Vaiva Marozienė told LRT.

Marozienė, who took up the role in mid-September, said balancing the needs of a growing city with those of nature was difficult but possible. She acknowledged that some Vilnius streets looked like “tree cemeteries”, saying the situation was partly shaped by decisions made decades ago.

Many trees in the city were planted without following the regulations that apply today, she said. Current rules do not always meet the needs of urban greenery, and difficult choices can arise when city infrastructure projects affect trees. Marozienė said officials and engineers discuss how to find the best solutions while meeting regulations.

She said fewer people now dismiss trees as unimportant, but contractors carrying out work still need guidance. The city plans additional training and meetings, and has prepared instructions for contractors on how to handle work around trees.

Marozienė said she also visits work sites to check how projects are being carried out and speak with workers. She said the city needed to strengthen its team and help contractors treat tree protection as seriously as city officials do.