Dolina Odry – problemy zrównoważonego rozwoju

The Odra is the second largest river in Poland. The same applies to its basin. It is also one of major European rivers. For over 50 years related research programmes have focused on the economic aspects and pollution. Only recently new perspectives have been developed, emphasising the river's recreational potential and environmental protection. The new approach, integrating flood control with pollution control and environmental protection, has been empasised to foster sustainable growth in the river valley. At present, the principal objectives are: - Flood control. Its importance has been generally acknowledged. In this context, the benefits of the open landscape of the Odra valley cannot be overestimated: it is possible to create large retention areas and retain foold water within the valley to protect densely populated areas. - Pollution control and water retention for consumption and industrial purposes. This is the second most important goal, requiring large investemnts (municipal, industrial and household sewage treatment plants) and a creative planning vision. - Development and promotion of the recreational and tourist potential of the Odra valley. This direction is considered very attractive by local authorities and residents but requires considerable investement to became reality. - Environmental protection. Within the Odra valley, also outside Poland, there are 56 regions (occupying 2000 hectares) of very high natural value. Together with other areas, they form the North-South ecological corridor, second only to that of the Vistula river. - Navigation and power industry. There has been a general agreement about the continued use of the Odra for navigation, roviding that the development of water transport respects the river's hydrogeological conditions. The need to promote the "white fleet", as less harmful to the environment, has been emphasised. Thus, the priorities are clear and generally accepted but so far there is no comprehensive vision of the development of the Oder and its valley. Who will present it?