A joint initiative by Marijampolė municipality, Begam, and Sūduvos Vandenys was launched to promote public access to fresh drinking water and encourage sustainable habits in urban spaces. As part of this collaboration, modern outdoor drinking fountains were installed in key public areas across Marijampolė and its surroundings. These installations aim to improve residents’ quality of life, foster environmental responsibility, and position the region as a leader in sustainable urban development.

Project Overview

1. Strategic Collaboration
   The partnership brought together local government, private stakeholders, and water utilities to achieve a shared goal: providing accessible, clean drinking water to the public. Each organization contributed to different aspects of the project:
   • Marijampolė municipality facilitated site selection and community engagement.
   • Begam provided expertise in infrastructure design and customization.
   • Sūduvos Vandenys ensured the fountains were connected to reliable water sources, meeting all sanitary and technical standards.
2. Fountain Design and Placement
   The chosen drinking fountains were durable, weather-resistant models designed for outdoor use. Key features included:
   • Vandal-proof construction for public safety and longevity.
   • Ergonomic designs to accommodate users of all ages, including children and individuals with disabilities.
   • Clear instructions and signage encouraging reusable bottles to reduce plastic waste.
   The fountains were strategically placed in parks, squares, sports facilities, and near popular walking routes, ensuring maximum visibility and usage.
3. Implementation Process
   The installation process involved careful planning and execution:
   • Site Preparation: Locations were evaluated for accessibility, environmental impact, and ease of water supply connection.
   • Community Engagement: Residents were informed about the initiative through public meetings, social media, and local events, fostering excitement and support.
   • Installation and Testing: The fountains were installed with a focus on long-term reliability, followed by thorough testing to ensure optimal performance and water quality.

Results and Benefits

1. Improved Public Amenities
   The new fountains provide free, fresh drinking water to residents and visitors, enhancing the comfort and convenience of outdoor spaces.
2. Environmental Impact
   By encouraging the use of reusable bottles, the initiative has helped reduce single-use plastic waste, supporting Lithuania’s broader environmental goals.
3. Community Appreciation
   The project has been widely praised by the public, with fountains quickly becoming popular landmarks and gathering points in Marijampolė. Residents have expressed gratitude for the improved infrastructure and the project’s alignment with sustainable values.
4. Health and Wellness
   The fountains have promoted healthy hydration habits, particularly during the summer months when outdoor activity is at its peak.

Conclusion
The collaboration between Marijampolė, Begam, and Sūduvos Vandenys exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving sustainable urban development. By installing modern, reliable outdoor drinking fountains, the project has enriched the daily lives of residents, reduced environmental impact, and set a benchmark for similar initiatives in other regions. This success demonstrates the importance of investing in sustainable, community-centered infrastructure.