Poland, although 1 of the countries with comparatively large water resources in Europe, faces a serious challenge of water scarcity. In fresh years, experts and scientists have been beating the alarm, pointing to the threat of increasingly diverse access to water in different parts of the country. In 2024, reports indicate a clear threat of drought and possible water shortages that can affect both urban residents and farmers.
Water resources Poland – current situation
Poland is in a group of countries with low water resources per capita, which means that we must especially care for efficient water management. According to data Central Statistical Office, yearly water resources in Poland are about 1 600 ml water per person, which puts us at the EU minimum of 1 700 million. It is worth noting that the average value of water resources in the EU countries is 3 400 ml per personwhich gives a better image of the situation in another countries.
In the face of changing climate, Poland is struggling with increasingly frequent droughts and rainfallwhich are not evenly distributed during the year. This phenomenon is increasingly noticeable, especially in the context of agriculture and sustainable urban development.
Climate change and water in Poland
Experts stress that Poland, like another countries in Europe, is struggling with the effect Climate changewhich may lead to crucial future water problems. Forecasts show that these changes will have a crucial impact on water availability in the country over the next fewer decades.
Average temperatures in Poland are rising and as a consequence rain They're getting little predictable. In particular, this applies to the east and confederate parts of the country, where there is more frequent occurrence droughts. In 2023, Poland recorded 1 of the worst drought seasons, with water shortages in many rivers and lakes, including large water reservoirs in the south of the country.
Increase in urban water consumption
Residents of cities, especially large agglomerations, can see an increase in water consumption, which besides affects its availability. In 2024 water consumption in Poland is around 200 litres per individual per daywhich ranks us at the European average level. However, for comparison, average in Nordic countries is about 150 litres per individual per day, as a consequence of their more cost-effective and greener practices in the management of water resources.
In cities like Warsaw, Kraków is Boat, water is utilized mainly for surviving and industrial purposes. However, an expanding number of residents besides usage water to irrigate gardens, swimming pools, as well as for another purposes related to improving quality of life, which further increases demand.
Risk to agriculture
One of the most serious impacts of water scarcity in Poland is the threat to the sector agriculturalwhich is very delicate to climate change. Farmland in the South and east of the country they are facing the most serious water availability problems. According to the study Institute for Fertilisation and dirt Cultivation of 2023, in east and confederate Poland, wheat yields decreased on average by 25%and any crops have been completely extinct due to deficiency of adequate rainfall.
This problem may be exacerbated if adequate irrigation systems are not introduced and innovative technologies water saving in agriculture.
Water in manufacture and energy
Poland is 1 of the countries that base a large part of their energy on carbonand on water power plants. With low water levels in rivers that supply hydropower, it can happen problem with energy production. In 2023 due to the fact that low water levels in rivers, respective hydroelectric plants in the south of Poland had to reduce their production. This shows the importance of ensuring constant access to water in the context of Energy and industry in Poland.
Solutions – how to manage water in Poland?
In the face of these challenges, experts point to the request to implement modern methods management of water resources. The proposals include:
- Construction and modernisation of irrigation systems – investments in Irrigation infrastructure may aid farmers in the face of changing weather conditions.
- Implementation of water-saving systems in cities and industries – changing consumer habits and application modern technologies In households and companies, water consumption may be reduced.
- Protection of water vessels – action is besides needed to advance water tank protection and water recycling, especially in the areas most susceptible to drought.
Water in Poland becomes a valuable and limited resource that requires liable management. Experts inform against upcoming water crises that may have serious consequences for the economy, agriculture and everyday life of citizens. In order to avoid disaster, immediate action is needed to defend water resources and implement sustainable development.
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Will there be no water in Poland? Experts inform against a fresh crisis
