Deputy Climate Minister Urszula Zielińska has announced the upcoming “Mirek” program, which offers property owners up to 8,000 PLN to support rainwater retention and mitigate drought risks.
Poland’s Struggle Against Drought
Deputy Minister Urszula Zielińska has warned that declining water resources require a faster response to the effects of climate change. Speaking at the European Economic Congress in Katowice, she emphasized that water scarcity is no longer just an expert prediction but a real threat to people in Poland.
The Minister noted that over half of the world’s largest metropolises, including those in Cyprus and Iran, fear a drinking water crisis. She indicated that Poland is in a difficult position, necessitating the implementation of effective policies and legislative steps.
New Climate Adaptation Mandates
A key legislative step involves amending the Environmental Protection Law, which obligates cities with more than 20,000 residents to create climate change adaptation plans. This duty covers 209 local governments, most of which have already begun implementing necessary solutions.
The “Mirek” Program Details
The “Mirek” program is set to launch this summer, targeting property owners to encourage home rainwater retention. The initiative aims to help citizens lower utility costs by capturing rainwater for residential use.
Subsidies can cover the purchase, installation, and expansion of rainwater retention systems. According to the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, the support may cover up to 90% of investment costs, with a maximum of 8,000 PLN per household.
Funding and Application Process
The program is backed by 173 million PLN from the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate, and Environment (FEnIKS 2021–2027). Notably, the program will also provide reimbursement for expenses incurred since July 1, 2024.
Applications will be managed through provincial environmental protection and water management funds.
