Once again, the SWPS University community joined forces to care for the local environment by cleaning up the banks of the Vistula River. Organized in cooperation with Warsaw municipal authorities, the initiative took place on October 9 as part of the Green Volunteer Program. The event was also integrated into ERUA Clean Up Days, a broader international effort spearheaded by member institutions of the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA).
Local Action, European Scale
The ERUA Clean Up Days initiative demonstrates how universities can effectively translate shared values into concrete action within their host cities. Bracketed by two major environmental milestones—World Cleanup Day and World Food Day (October 16)—alliance member universities organized local events united by a single vision: taking responsibility for the shared spaces where academic communities live and work.
For the Warsaw campus of SWPS University, that vital space is the Vistula River—one of the capital's primary ecological and scenic corridors.
Partnership Between SWPS University and the City of Warsaw
The "Green Volunteering" program is a unique opportunity for Warsaw residents to actively participate in the daily maintenance of the urban ecosystem. Through collaboration with professionals, volunteers not only make a direct contribution to the environment but also gain practical insights into the design and maintenance of the capital’s green spaces.
The initiative proves that caring for urban nature yields the best results when public institutions, universities, and local residents join forces. The city provided expertise, coordination, and the identification of areas requiring support, while the academic community contributed dedication, energy, and a drive for action.
This collaborative model aligns with a core principle of sustainable development: no single entity can independently safeguard the common good represented by urban green spaces and waterfront areas.
1,000 Liters of Trash Collected Along the Riverbanks
For this year’s autumn cleanup, a group of 15 students and staff members from SWPS University's Warsaw campus gathered near the Świętokrzyski Bridge. Together, participants collected five 200-liter bags of trash from the area.
Plastic waste made up the majority of the debris collected, consisting primarily of packaging, bottle caps, and cigarette butts. Volunteers also removed several unusual items, including connected pipe sections and damaged fishing nets.
It was a fantastic event—I can't think of a better way to bond than doing something good and worthwhile together. When you're working out in nature surrounded by reed grasses that stand half a meter taller than you, the whole experience feel truly special.
Ania, a volunteer from the administrative division at SWPS University
From Cleanup to Changing Habits
Direct contact with waste scattered along the riverbanks highlights how daily consumption habits impact the environment. For this reason, the university views these cleanups as valuable practical lessons—experiences that raise awareness of one's environmental footprint and encourage lasting behavioral change. Ultimately, these initiatives motivate individuals to reduce their reliance on single-use packaging and practice greater environmental responsibility in public spaces.
Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative actively supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), Goal 15 (Life on Land), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). For SWPS University, this is a natural extension of its mission: to educate individuals who are prepared to take responsibility for their environment, both through academic practice and in everyday, real-world action.
Particpants of the Autumn Clean-Up Days initiative
Next Steps
The autumn activities organized as part of the ERUA Clean Up Days initiative demonstrate that shared values and concrete commitment can effectively rally a community around environmental challenges. SWPS University plans to continue its collaboration with the city of Warsaw and partners from the ERUA alliance. Caring for the Vistula river, our climate, and local biodiversity requires ongoing dedication rather than isolated efforts—which is why environmental stewardship has been permanently integrated into our university's long-term strategy.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the volunteers and the Warsaw municipal authorities for their collaborative effort and dedication!
Our Previous Environmental Initiatives
Spring Clean-Up Days 2026
Planting ivy in the Warsaw's Arkadia Park
ERUA Member Universities
Funding