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Description
The commune of Polanica-Zdrój, like most cities in the country, is struggling with the problem of not using the potential of rainwater, air pollution and the phenomenon of the so-called urban heat island. Both in the voivodeship and in Polanica-Zdrój, the number of days with precipitation above 10 mm is systematically increasing. In addition, the city has many slopes during rainfall due to its mountainous nature they are exposed to erosion. Problems faced by Polanica-Zdrój also result from insufficient awareness of the inhabitants of the possibility of managing rainwater. The problems that will be solved thanks to the implementation of the Project include: - unused potential for rainwater management, - the occurrence of the phenomenon of erosion on slopes, - undeveloped public spaces, - low awareness of residents regarding the possibility of rainwater management, - the occurrence of the so-called urban heat island, - air pollution.
As part of the project, a number of adaptation and mitigation measures in the field of green and blue infrastructure have been planned, which will contribute to the elimination of the identified problems.
The implementation of the project will contribute to: development of small retention, limitation of the urban heat island phenomenon, limitation of air pollution, limitation of erosion on slopes and raising public awareness of climate change. The main goal of the project is to increase the ability of the Polanica-Zdrój community to mitigate climate change and adapt to its effects through a series of adaptation-mitigation, educational and information activities planned in the project.
The residents of Polanica-Zdrój will primarily benefit from the effects of the project. In addition, a number of educational and information activities have been planned, which will also be used by visitors.
Summary of project results
The Polanica-Zdrój commune implemented a project entitled: "Revalorization and revitalization of green areas in Polanica-Zdrój, taking into account green and blue infrastructure for the city''s adaptation to climate change" co-financed by the Financial Mechanism of the European Economic Area under the program "Environment, energy and climate change. Mitigating climate change and adapting to their effects", which aimed to solve several key environmental and infrastructure problems affecting the quality of life of residents and the state of the environment.
One of the main goals of the project was the effective management of rainwater, which has not been optimally used so far, even though it is a valuable resource, especially in times of climate change. Rainwater, instead of being discharged into the sewage system, can be used to irrigate plants, green areas, and other utility purposes. This approach reduces the demand for drinking water and improves the efficiency of water resources management.
Lack of effective stormwater management can lead to increased flood risk, soil degradation and groundwater contamination. In response to these challenges, the project focused not only on infrastructure, but also on educating residents and increasing their awareness of the importance of proper stormwater management. Through information campaigns, workshops and training, the commune aimed to make society aware of the importance of taking initiatives at the individual and community level to counteract the effects of climate change, such as floods and water shortages.
The implemented project in Polanica-Zdrój included a number of projects aimed at improving biodiversity, developing green and blue infrastructure and adapting the city to the changing climate. Investments such as the construction of rain gardens and retention zones have contributed to making the city more resilient to the effects of climate change. Thanks to these activities, Polanica-Zdrój has become a place that benefits both current and future generations of residents.
One of the main challenges that was successfully solved by the project was land erosion, especially in areas with steep slopes. The implemented measures, such as soil stabilization and land reclamation, effectively prevented further land degradation and improved environmental and infrastructural safety.
An important element of the project was also the revitalization of public spaces that were previously unused or neglected. Thanks to these activities, the city gained new, attractive places conducive to social integration and recreation for its residents, which significantly improved the quality of life.
To combat the urban heat island problem, the project included increasing the area of green areas and using materials with low heat retention. These activities allowed for a significant reduction in temperature in the city, improving the comfort of life, especially in summer, and affecting the health of residents.
The project also included the fight against air pollution by promoting ecological energy sources, improving the energy efficiency of buildings and educating residents about the responsible use of resources. The implementation of these activities contributed to the improvement of air quality in Polanica-Zdrój.
Overall, the implementation of this project was a key step towards creating a more sustainable and harmonious urban environment. In the long term, this will contribute to the protection of biodiversity, optimization of water infrastructure and increased ecological awareness among the local community. The implemented activities will also have a significant impact on improving the quality of life of the inhabitants of Polanica-Zdrój, contributing to building a city that is more resistant to climate change and more friendly for future generations.
The main goal of the project was to increase the ability of the Polanica-Zdrój community to mitigate climate change and adapt to its effects. The project included a number of activities aimed at improving the condition of the urban environment, increasing biodiversity, improving the quality of life of residents and increasing the city''s resilience to climate change.
Maintenance works on trees in the Spa Park As part of the task, comprehensive maintenance works were carried out on the tree stand in the Spa Park, aimed at improving the health and aesthetics of the trees. Maintenance cuts were made, which involved removing dead, withered or diseased branches, which contributed to improving the condition of the trees and reducing the risk of spreading diseases. The formation of tree crowns allowed them to be provided with adequate space to grow, which favored their harmonious development. Additionally, the installation of elastic bonds was intended to stabilize younger trees, protecting them against damage caused by strong winds. Thanks to these activities, the tree stand has become more resistant to unfavorable weather conditions, which provides trees with better conditions for further healthy growth, and the Spa Park has improved its aesthetics and safety.
Planting trees in roadside strips As part of the project, trees were planted in roadside strips along several streets in Polanica-Zdrój, such as Orkana, Kryniczna, Ogrodowa, Piastowska, Parkowa, Chrobrego, Krasińskiego, Reymonta, Lipowa, Cicha, Górska, Aleja Róż and Zwycięzców, where a total of 149 trees were plantedobszar. The aim of these plantings was not only to beautify urban space, but also to increase the area of green zones, which play a key role in mitigating the urban heat island phenomenon, improving air quality and increasing biodiversity. Additionally, trees in roadside strips have a positive impact on the microclimate in the city, providing natural shade and improving the quality of life of residents.
Construction of an eco-garden at the Primary School of the Edukator Association As part of the project at the Primary School of the "Edukator" Association, an eco-garden was created, which has an educational and ecological function. The garden consists of special boxes in which plants are planted and cared for by students and teachers. The project also includes the installation of rainwater tanks used to water plants, which helps save water. Additionally, there are insect houses in the garden, which support biodiversity and contribute to improving the ecosystem. The aim of this project was not only to educate children about ecology, but also to develop an attitude of responsibility for the natural environment. The eco-garden is also an example of the practical application of ecological principles that students can transfer to their own backyards, and in the future - on a larger scale, influencing the local community.
Expansion of the layered structure and species of greenery in order to increase the functional (ecosystem) efficiency in the Spa Park As part of the project, the layered and species structure of greenery in the Spa Park was expanded, which significantly enriched the area both aesthetically and ecologically. 134 trees were planted, approximately 23 thousand bushes, 13 thousand herbaceous plants and 5 thousand bulb plants. These types of diverse plantings are crucial to improving ecosystem functioning, supporting biodiversity and effectively managing stormwater. Increasing water retention in the park is an important step towards adapting the city to climate change, contributing to its greater resistance to extreme weather phenomena. Thanks to these activities, the Spa Park gained not only aesthetic values, but also became a space supporting the health and well-being of residents, acting as a green oasis in the heart of the city.
Increasing the retention and biologically active area on the slope at ul. Harcerska, ul. Zdrojowa, ul. Kryniczna, ul. Żeromski On the slopes at ul. Harcerska, ul. Zdrojowa, ul. Kryniczna and ul. New plants were planted at Żeromskiego Street. Additionally, along ul. A rain garden and a flower meadow were created at Żeromskiego Street, which play a key role in water retention, supporting the water balance in the city. The introduced solutions effectively contribute to preventing floods in particularly vulnerable areas, and also improve the effectiveness of rainwater management, strengthening the city''s resilience to changing climatic conditions.
Construction of a walking and cycling path with an ornithological and meteorological tower, a warm-up zone, a footbridge and renovation of the chapel on Mary''s Hill. The project included the construction of a pedestrian and bicycle path that connects key parts of Polanica-Zdrój, providing residents with safe and comfortable conditions for walking and cycling. Additionally, an ornithological and meteorological tower was built, which allows bird observation and monitoring of weather conditions, constituting an attraction for both nature lovers and meteorology enthusiasts, tourists, spa guests and residents. As part of the project, a warm-up zone and a pedestrian footbridge were also created, which enrich the public space, increasing its functionality and attractiveness for both residents and tourists.
Renovation of paths in the Spa Park As part of this task, the renovation of park paths in the Central Park, Josef’s Park, Chess Park and Rhododendron Park was carried out. The aim of the renovation was to improve the quality of the surface by replacing degraded materials, which was aimed at increasing the efficiency of rainwater filtration and improving the accessibility of paths, especially for people with limited mobility. Thanks to these activities, the paths have become more functional and safe.
Reconstruction of the fountain with a sculpture of the Polanica bear The fountain located in the park next to the Mineral Water Pump Room in Polanica-Zdrój was renovated, with a sculpture depicting a Polanica bear with a boy sitting on its back. The fountain has become an important element of public space, serving both an aesthetic and tourist function. Additionally, as part of this task, solutions were introduced to support rainwater retention, which contributes to improving rainwater management in the park. Thanks to this investment, the park has gained a new attraction that not only beautifies the space, but also supports the ecosystem and increases the city''s resistance to changing climatic conditions.
Renovation of the Concert Shell The renovation of the Concert Shell in Polanica-Zdrój was one of the key elements of the project, which aimed to both improve the aesthetics and increase the efficiency of rainwater management within the facility. The Concert Shell, which is one of the characteristic elements of the Spa Park, was in the past exposed to atmospheric factors, which contributed to its degradation. The renovation was aimed at restoring its former function and ensuring the long-term durability of the facility. Due to climate change, rainfall is increasing in many cities, including Polanica-Zdrój, and effective rainwater management is becoming crucial. The project introduced a system that allows rainwater to be collected and then discharged in a controlled manner. This system prevents the accumulation of excess water on the roof and its uncontrolled flow, which could lead to damage to the structure and deterioration of the quality of the environment around the Shell.
Construction of model eco-stops As part of the project, modern, ecological stops were built, which are an excellent example of an innovative approach to urban transport infrastructure. The stops have been designed to save energy and have minimal impact on the environment. Nature-friendly materials were used, as well as solutions that support sustainable development, such as energy-saving lighting and the availability of chargers for electronic devices. This approach to the design of public space contributes to improving the quality of life of residents and tourists, while promoting pro-ecological attitudes in the field of transport.
Replacing outdoor lighting with energy-saving ones As part of this task, traditional lighting in the Spa Park was replaced with modern energy-saving light sources based on LED technology. The use of these innovative solutions contributed to a significant reduction in electricity consumption, which in turn allowed for lower park maintenance costs. Moreover, modern lighting not only improved the quality of lighting in public spaces, but also increased the safety of park users in the evenings, while supporting sustainable development by reducing the carbon footprint.
Information and educational activities The project included a number of educational activities aimed at raising ecological awareness among the inhabitants of Polanica-Zdrój and tourists, encouraging them to actively participate in environmental protection activities. The following initiatives were implemented as part of information and educational activities:
- Media campaigns
- Production of educational films
- Educational brochures and press articles
- Competitions
- Ecological festivals and picnics
- Workshops and training
- Website
During the events, various promotional materials were distributed, such as fabric bags, flash drives, mascots, notebooks and pens, which were intended to promote the idea of sustainable development and environmental protection and to leave a lasting mark of the project among the participants
The project achieved a number of significant results that had a significant impact on the residents of Polanica-Zdrój and the quality of the urban environment. The main goal of the project was to increase the ability of the local community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change, which was achieved through comprehensive activities in the field of environmental protection, education and the development of green and blue infrastructure.
- Increasing social awareness and involvement of residents
The project reached 6,038 residents of Polanica-Zdrój, who took part in a number of activities aimed at raising their ecological awareness. Thanks to training, workshops and educational events, residents gained knowledge about the importance of pro-ecological activities, such as saving water, improving air quality and counteracting urban heat islands. In addition, the project included the training of 16 experts who will continue education and support local institutions and the community in further environmental protection activities.
- Investments in green and blue infrastructure
The project included 22 investments related to green and blue infrastructure, aimed at improving the quality of public spaces, increasing biodiversity and effective management of rainwater. These activities brought benefits to both residents and the natural environment. The revitalization of green areas improved air quality, increased the retention area and improved the microclimate in the city. Thanks to this, public spaces became more attractive and residents gained new places to relax and integrate.
- Wide range of information activities
Educational campaigns related to mitigating climate change and adapting to its effects reached 923,548 recipients. Thanks to the use of various forms of communication - including educational films, brochures, press articles, competitions, festivals, workshops and training - the project successfully increased ecological awareness not only among the inhabitants of Polanica-Zdrój, but also among tourists and other people associated with the city. The result of these activities is greater ecological responsibility and active community involvement in environmental protection issues.
- Revitalization of public spaces
As part of the project, 9.3033 ha of green areas were revitalized, renovated, developed and made available to residents. These activities improved the quality of urban space, contributing to the improvement of the quality of life of residents and increasing the availability of recreational areas. Planting plants and creating rain gardens and flower meadows were aimed at improving water retention, reducing flood risk and increasing biodiversity. Additionally, the area of the uncapped zones was 3.49226 ha, which significantly improved the natural water circulation in the city and increased the biologically active area.
- Benefits for residents and tourists
The revitalization of public spaces, such as the Spa Park and pedestrian and bicycle paths, had a direct impact on the quality of life of residents. Newly created recreational spaces support social integration and constitute attractive places for tourists to relax. In addition, accessibility for people with disabilities has been improved, making the city more inclusive and friendly to all residents.
- Long-term impact on the city and its resilience to climate change
The project also had a long-term impact on the adaptation of Polanica-Zdrój to climate change. Increasing the area of green areas, building model eco-stops, introducing energy-saving lighting and revitalizing public spaces contributed to the creation of a more sustainable city and more resistant to climate change. These investments have improved the quality of life of current and future generations of residents, and also increased the city''s resilience to the effects of climate change, such as heat waves and floods.
Summary
The project contributed to a significant improvement in the quality of life of the inhabitants of Polanica-Zdrój by implementing activities aimed at improving the quality of the environment, increasing biodiversity and building a more sustainable city and more resistant to climate change. Thanks to the involvement of the local community and the implementation of numerous investments and educational activities, Polanica-Zdrój has become an example of a city that effectively combines environmental protection with the everyday life of its residents.
Summary of bilateral results
Cooperation with a foreign project partner brought a number of tangible benefits that significantly contributed to the project''s success. Thanks to the involvement of the partner, the project gained new development opportunities and a wider reach. The presentations of the Partner''s representatives during organized events, such as scientific conferences, were an excellent opportunity to share knowledge, experience and best practices. Such activities not only enriched the project in terms of content, but also contributed to increasing its visibility and interest.Bilateral cooperation brought a number of significant benefits and tangible results that had a key impact on the development of the project. First of all, one of the most important effects of this cooperation was the exchange of experiences, which allowed both parties to enrich their knowledge and develop their skills. Thanks to this exchange, the project gained new perspectives and inspiration for further development, as well as motivation to implement future activities. Lectures and presentations given by the Partner''s representatives had a significant impact on expanding the knowledge of the project participants. Both employees involved in the implementation of the project, as well as local residents and guests, obtained valuable information that enriched their understanding of the project''s subject matter and opened up new horizons. The contact has been maintained, but there are no specific plans to continue the cooperation/collaboration at this time.