jvEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency Office of International Activities Mall Code 2650R http://www.epa.gov/oia May 2000 160-K-00-001 Promoting a Sustainable Future: A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation ------- & r -,* i -ii. - I ? v v . »* H.-** ^ ^^ *%£*« *iffW->;, *** v ' > - .< J .- -;;-t * * i\ >x H ' :- ------- Promoting a Sustainable Future: A Decade ofEPA-Polish Cooperation Table of Contents Prologue Air Protection Krakow Air Quality Project 4-5 Water Protection Krakow Water Quality Project Raba Watershed Management Project Blue Thumb Project Agriculture and Water Quality Project 6-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 Waste Management Biosolids Reclamation Project Underground Storage Tank Project Brownfields Redevelopment Project 14-15 16-17 18-19 Policy Demonstrations Brownfields Policy Project Local Environmental Action Program (LEAP): Pilot Phase LEAP: Replication Phase Enforcement and Compliance Project 20-21 22-23 24-25 26-27 Education and Training Environmental Management Training Center Project Krag Environmental Education Project 28-29 30-31 Epilogue 32 ------- STAROGARD GADANSKl ALEKSANDROW KUJAWSKI * FALENTY* WARSAW POLAND CZESTOCHOWA ------- Prologue IRON CURTAIN RISES TO REVEAL DIRT, DEATH - Boston Globe (1989) EASTERN EUROPE BREATHES THE AIR OF FREEDOM, AND CHOKES - New York Times (1994) When the Berlin Wall fell in November 1989, the eyes of the world focused with excitement on the historic changes sweeping through Central and Eastern Europe. As these fragile new democracies emerged from behind the Iron Curtain, the world also saw significant environmental degradation, one of the unfortunate legacies of the previous regimes, and their attention to industrial production at all costs. In Poland, statues in the historic city of Krakow literally were melting away because of air pollution from a near-by steel mill. For many Polish and international observers, the blurred faces of these statues symbolized the importance of improving Poland's environment for current and future generations. Under the Support for East European Democracy (SEED) Act of 1989, and with financial support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the .U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was tasked to work with officials in Krakow to help them improve air and water quality for the city's residents. These programs, along with many other bilateral cooperative activities in Poland which followed in subsequent years, are described in the following pages. Although the events of 1989 certainly gave greater impetus and attention to U.S.-Polish cooperation, EPA was privileged to have established bilateral professional relationships with Polish environmental experts even before the fall of the Berlin Wall. This cooperation initially took place under the auspices of the Polish-U.S. Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation. Then, in 1987, the importance of strengthening environmental cooperation with Poland was underscored by the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between EPA and the Polish Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Forestry, an agreement which remains active today Although EPA is proud to have been a part of the success described in these pages, we recognize that none of it would have been possible without the professionalism, dedica- tion and expertise of our Polish and U.S. partners. Some are mentioned in these pages by name, others by organizational affiliation. However, there are countless individuals and organizations, too numerous to mention individually, who also made an important contribution to the success of EPA-Polish environmental cooperation over the past decade. EPA also would like to express its appreciation to USAID for its financial support, without which much of this work would not have been possible. ------- Air Protection Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview In 1989, then-U.S. President George Bush traveled to Krakow and made a commitment that the United States would provide support to improve the air quality and to set up a state-of-the-art air monitoring network for the city. EPA's support for air quality management in Krakow over the last 10 years was conducted in two phases: Phase I was the establishment of the air quality net- work. Phase II was the introduction of additional tools and methods to better understand and estimate air pollution in Krakow, with a focus on air pollution from motor vehicles. Krakow Air Quality Project Krakow is the historic capital of Poland, a city spared the ravages of war and adorned with many old churches and fine buildings. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, these churches and buildings were threat- ened by emissions from the giant Nowa Huta Steel Mill, from coal burned for home- heating, and from motor vehicles with no emission controls. Under the Support for Eastern European Democracy (SEED) Act of 1989, the United States provided EPA with $1 million to establish an air monitoring net- work in Poland. Key Objectives Develop an air quality monitoring network to provide information for emergency and long-term control strategies Disseminate information in order to improve air quality and educate and inform the public Transfer key U.S. tools and approaches to enable the development of an effective air quality management program in Krakow. Project Activities Monitoring Air Quality In the first phase of EPA's collaboration in Krakow, EPA and Polish experts worked together to design and set up a state-of-the- art, automated, ambient air quality monitor- ing network in Krakow. In spring of 1991, a shipment of 20 tons of U.S. air monitoring equipment reached Krakow. EPA specialists worked with their Polish counterparts to install the monitoring stations and after two months of trial runs, the system was officially commissioned on November 7,1991. The ceremony was attended by officials from the United States and Poland. The seven-station system is tailored to reflect the air monitoring situation in Krakow, with each station measuring different pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particles, ozone, and heavy metals. In addition to the seven fixed stations, the system also includes one mobile air monitor- ing unit. Disseminating Information The data from the air quality monitoring system in Krakow have been extensively used to educate and inform scientists, school children, factory workers, and the general public. The information was presented in a variety of ways, including yearly reports, monthly bulletins, videos, slides, the annual State of the Environment Report, and press coverage. For the last several years, air pollution information from the monitoring network has been displayed on an electronic display board in Krakow's main square. Managing Urban Air Quality in Krakow The second phase of EPA's collaboration with Krakow on air quality was designed to address the air pollution problems caused by the increase in mobile source pollution. The goal was to establish a basis for more informed decision-making through the use of improved data, analytical tools (including improved monitoring and modeling tech- niques) and transportation control options. EPA worked with experts in Krakow to develop tools and information to enable the Voivodship (region) and the City of Krakow to make reliable decisions on air pollution control measures, including: Updating the current air monitoring network to monitor pollutants associated with mobile sources such as non-methane organics and volitile organic compounds; adding more ozone samplers; and equip- ment to measure fine particulates (parti- ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Air Protection cles with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns, known as PM^) Reconfiguring the air monitoring network to better capture pollution from mobile sources. In addition, the network was rearranged to reflect the additional area added to the former Krakow Voivod- ship, now the Malopolska Voivodship, during the administrative restructuring that took place in Poland in 1998-1999 Performing special air pollution studies to capture the volatile organic compounds in the air in Krakow, particularly those associated with mobile sources Providing training in air monitoring, specifically training to run the new samplers Providing emission inventory training and assistance in developing an emission inventory for all sources in Krakow Developing an updated emission inventory for Krakow, including station- ary sources, mobile sources, and area wide sources Conducting dispersion modeling training, both for experts in modeling and for managers Transferring a dispersion model (CalPuff) to Krakow, and beginning trial runs of the model Organizing a Transportation and Air Quality Workshop in Krakow to bring together experts from Poland, the United States and European cities to share information and experiences on transpor- tation and air quality issues Setting up a small office within the City of Krakow that will work on air pollution and transportation issues in collaboration with the Voivodship Environment Depart- ment and Organizing a final Krakow Urban Air Conference sharing lessons learned and tools and approaches with other cities in Poland. Contacts Poland Jerzy Wertz Environmental Protection Department Malopolska Region ul Ractawicka 56 30-017 Krakow, Poland Tel: 48-12-633-11-22 Fax: 48-12-633-18-33 Konrad Pawel Turzanski Voivodship Inspectorate State Inspectorate for Environmental Protection PI. Szczepanski 5 31-011 Krakow, Poland Tel: (48-12) 422-4895 Fax: (48-12) 422-3612 United States Jane Metcalfe U.S. EPA 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (2670R) Washington, DC 20460 Tel: (202)564-6451 Fax: (202)565-2411 metcalfe.jane@epa.gov Thomas Hartlage U.S. EPA National Exposure Research Laboratory Research Triangle Park, NC 27711 USA Tel: (919)541-3008 Fax: (919)541-4609 hartlage.thomas@epa.gov Key Results Krakow now has a state- of-the-art air monitoring network, an updated emission inventory for all sources of air pollution, and an air dispersion model for Krakow. Air pollution experts in Krakow are now technically trained in air monitoring, emission inventory and air dispersion modeling, and are continuing the project with little assistance from EPA. Krakow will become one of the first cities in Poland to develop and put in place an air quality model, which is a requirement tor accession to the European Union. The project convinced the City of Krakow and the Voivodship to establish a joint office, providing the institutional infrastructure to generate reliable information on air quality and transportation issues, and the ability to make joint policy decisions based on the best information available. Information from this project will be disseminated to other Polish cities and to other countries in the region. ------- Water Protection Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview Under the water/ wastewater project, EPA helped the City of Krakow upgrade the Raba and Rudawa drinking water treat- ment plants, the Paszow and Myslenice wastewater treatment plants, and a central laboratory which supports drinking water and wastewater facilities. EPA pro- vided equipment, supplies, replacement parts, and appropriate training for Krakow personnel. Krakow Water Quality Project The genesis of the Krakow Water Quality Project began with a proposal, offered by then-U.S. President George Bush during his visit to Poland in July 1989, that the United States work with Poland to assist Krakow with its air and water pollution problems. Under the Support for Eastern European Democracy (SEED) Act of 1989, approximately $4 million was provided to EPA for the water/wastewater project in Krakow. Under an interagency agreement, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assisted EPA by acquiring equipment and arranging for its shipment to Krakow. A private engineering firm under contract to EPA helped select the equipment and prepared technical specifica- tions used by the Corps in its purchase. The primary Polish partner is the water and sewer utility serving the city of Krakow, MPWiK. Key Objectives Upgrade two drinking water treatment plants, two wastewater treatment plants, and a central laboratory which supports drinking water and wastewater facilities in the City of Krakow Train Polish experts to manage equipment and laboratory Project Activities Rudawa Drinking Water Treatment Plant This plant draws water from the Rudawa River and provides about one fourth of Krakow's water supply. The equipment provided by the United States, combined with local investments, enable the plant to produce a higher quality of drinking water than it could produce prior to the initiation of the program. Raba Drinking Water Treatment Plant This is a relatively new plant that was completed in 1986 and provides about one- half of Krakow's water supply. The equip- ment EPA provided for this plant includes: air blowers, equipment to add chlorine and ozone to the water, analytical equipment to control plant operations, and analytical equipment and other facilities for a remote monitoring station at the water intake. Myslenice Wastewater Treatment Plant The Myslenice wastewater treatment plant is located on the headwaters of the Raba reservoir from which the Raba plant draws its water. The plant was converted to a biological nutrient removal system. In addition to improving the wastewater treatment facility, the City of Krakow installed a monitoring station and an early warning system for the Raba reservoir at the Myslenice site. Paszow Wastewater Treatment Plant The major portion of this plant is a primary facility, but there is a secondary plant that treats approximately 0.3% of the flow. The secondary treatment system was converted to a demonstration plant for biological nutrient removal studies to determine how to produce effluent for industrial reuse. An existing building on the site was used for studies to investigate the physical/chemical treatment of the secondary effluent to remove additional phosphorus and suspend- ed solids by coagulation with metal salts ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Water Protection and filtration. Central Laboratory In view of the high level of pollution in the waters used for human consumption, more definitive and faster analytical techniques were required to identify the magnitude of the pollution problem and help protect public health. The effective use of the high- quality laboratory equipment is a cost- effective way to protect public health as Krakow implements an improved pollution control program. Contacts Poland Wojciech Studnicki City of Krakow Water & Sewage Utility Company ul. Senatorska 1 30-106 Krakow, Poland Tel: (48-12) 421-0008 Fax: (48-12) 421-4412 office@MPWiK.krakow.pl United States Charles E. Gross U.S. EPA 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (4204) Washington, DC 20460 Tel: (202)260-7370 Fax:(202)260-0116 gross.charles@epa.gov Ron Hotter U.S. EPA 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (4607) Washington/DC 20460 Tel: (202)260-7096 Fax: (202)401-6135 Key Results The quality of the drinking water available to Krakow residents has improved significantly. Raw water can now be monitored before it enters the treatment process because of new testing equipment and methodology. The water and wastewater utility in Krakow can now perform a full range of analytical tests to monitor the quality of raw water entering the water treatment processes and to measure the effectiveness of the treatment processes. U.S. firms were provided with the opportunity to introduce their equipment and services into the Polish market. ------- Water Protection Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview The Raba River in Poland flows through a beautiful mountainous region outside of the City of Krakow. The area is mostly rural, known for tourism, forests, and farmland. The Raba River sup- ports the Dobczyce Reservoir, which supplies sixty percent of the drinking water for Krakow. The Reservoir is threatened by pollution from raw sewage, from runoff from agriculture, roads, and landfills, and from settling particles from air pollution. Accord- ing to some estimates, the reservoir could become unusable in as little as six years. Communities in the Raba River area, facing the consider- able challenge of protecting a resource used outside their boundaries, formed the Union of Upper Raba River Communi- ties and Krakow (Union). The Union's purpose is to protect the water quality in the watershed and in the Dobczyce Reservoir. Raba Watershed Management Project In 1992, the U.S.- based Water Environ- ment Federation (WEF) entered into a cooperative agreement with EPA to provide technical assistance in selected Central and Eastern European countries, including Poland. Because WEF is a professional association for the wastewa- ter industry, the program was designed to use WEF members to provide pro bono technical assistance. In 1995, WEF began working with the Krakow Voivodship and the Union for the Raba River watershed to provide technical review of projects, training, and information on watershed protection and associations in the United States. WEF's assistance helped the Union gain critical funds for watershed protec- tion projects, promoted cooperative approaches to resolving the region's problems, helped validate the work of the Union, and provided ideas for new approaches to watershed protection. Key Objectives Develop a watershed management plan to protect and improve the water quality of the Raba River Improve skills and knowledge of mediation, and technical issues through training courses Foster sustainable relationships between Polish government officials and the Union in order to improve the Raba River watershed. Project Activities Review of the Raba River Watershed Management Plan A team of WEF experts reviewed the Raba River watershed management plan that had been prepared by a consulting firm. This review helped the Union acquire a funding commitment from the Polish Government for the construction of wastewater treatment plants. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) A WEF volunteer held a series of classes in the use of mediation and ADR in resolving envi- ronmental disputes. ADR was successfully used to resolve a wastewater treatment plant siting dispute. Training WEF volunteers taught workshops on a variety of technical subjects including biological nutrient removal, biosolids management, storm water management, and highway spill protec- tion. Technical Assistance A WEF volunteer evaluated plans for the upgrade and expansion of a wastewater treat- ment plant. The same volunteer provided technical information to the consulting firm working with the Union. Technical Exchange The director of the Union and several of the members (mayors of communities in the watershed) toured the United States to study* watershed protection measures, and the structure of U.S. watershed associations. A staff member from the Charles River Water- shed Association (CRWA) later visited the Raba River watershed and discussed CRWA's activi- ties. ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Water Protection Water Environment Federation" Contacts Poland Andrzej Spbczak Union of Upper Raba River Communities and Krakow Rynek 9 32-400 Myslenice, Poland Tel: (48-12) 274-1753 Fax: (48-12)274-2743 United States Tiffin Shewmake Water Environment Federation 601 Wythe Street Alexandria, VA 22314 USA Tel: (703) 684-2400 ext. 7245 Fax: (703)684-2492 tshewmake@wef.org Ron Hoffer U.S. EPA 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (4607) Washington, DC 20460 USA Tel: (202)260-7096 Fax: (202)401-6135 hoffer.ron@epa.gov Key Results Training and technical reviews supported the goal of protecting the Raba River watershed. Programs were designed and implemented in support of this goal. Strong local leaders now have a vision and a clear idea of how to use assistance programs to improve quality in the Krakow region. Professional volunteers brought valuable experience and enthusiasm to the technical program. Some volunteers became vested in the program and conducted their own initiatives. A case study was written about the Raba River Union by WEF to encourage broader dissemination of the watershed management approach. RZGW KRAK6W ------- Water Protection Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview Blue Thumb began as an information exchange in 1994 when representatives from the Krakow water utility and other local government officials visited Water For People (WFP) in the United States. Discus- sions with practicing utility professionals and interviews with environmental educa- tion groups brought the group to a consen- sus: collaborative communication mechanisms must be learned and employed to build understand- ing, support and creative solutions for water service changes in Krakow. Blue Thumb Project In Poland, as in so many parts of the world, the long-term provision of safe and sufficient drinking water at a reasonable price relies less on the technical aspects and more on the voice and involvement of the customer. Unfortunately, consumers often lack an understanding of what it takes to supply safe drinking water in sufficient quantity and quality. There is a dire need to educate people on the origin and protection of their drinking water, on the related health and environmental issues, and on the rationale behind capital improvements and rate increases by the local water utility. Water utilities, though, often suffer from a lack of public trust, more because of a traditional "top-down", technical and economic approach than actual miscon- duct. This makes effective communication with the public more complicated. The challenge is for utilities and local govern- ment to find supplemental, effective ways to build trust and to work with the cus- tomers in a two-way decision-making process. It was this need to build public awareness of and involvement in drinking water issues that led to the Blue Thumb Project in Krakow. Key Objectives Provide public awareness and education materials for the general public concern- ing safe drinking water Create an open line of communication between utilities and their customers in order to develop a two way decision- making process to make safe drinking water choices. Project Activities The Blue Thumb Project After reviewing various public communica- tions programs, Polish experts decided to adopt the Blue Thumb Project. Blue Thumb is a campaign developed by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) that provides public awareness and education strategies and materials on drinking water. To help in the effort, WFP committed to hire a Blue Thumb coordinator with a local non-governmental organization (NGO), the Regional Environmen- tal Education Center, known by the Polish acronym ROEE. Funds also were provided for the development of Blue Thumb activities and distribution of materials. From 1995 through 1998, in partnership with EPA, WFP provided ROEE with direct financial support and donat- ed services. ROEE's approach to Blue Thumb continues to be the engagement of students and teachers to reach the general public, including government officials. Water-related materials and activities have been borrowed from the North American water community. WFP volunteers from the AWWA membership have reinforced ROEE efforts with occasional on-site support and training on public communications, outreach and education methods. Blue Thumb's success has continued beyond WFP and EPA support. USAID and the Polish National Fund for Environmental Protection also provided funding to spread the Blue Thumb project throughout Poland. The annual "Water Week" continues with local corporate support. Also, a Peace Corps volunteer was assigned to ROEE to help with Blue Thumb and other activities. A web site on the work is now complete. Results from ROEE's Blue Thumb project have been felt elsewhere. The Krakow Water and Wastewater Utility, an original participant in the information exchange to the United States, has not only opened its doors to facility tours, but also has hired a public relations profession- al and developed a strategic communications plan that addresses many of the issues brought 10 ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Water Protection to light by Blue Thumb. Blue Thumb has also been replicated in Krakow's sister city of Lviv, Ukraine with ROEE serving as a training resource for Ukrainian NGOs and local government. The Blue Thumb project underscored a number of lessons. One is the need to bring all stakeholders to the table to address complicated issues such as urban water supply. Also, the work has shown the need to have a local implementing group, like ROEE, at the helm. It is best positioned to deal with local interests and politics, and ultimately is the institution to continue the work after initial support is complete. Finally, the collaboration among a local NGO, national and local governments, and supporting efforts of volunteers from a North American professional group have proved to be a feasible and cost-effective development model. Contacts Poland Miroslaw Gaweda Regional Environmental Education Center 12 Slawkowska Street 31-014 Krakow, Poland Tel: (48-12) 421-6796 Fax: (48-12)429-5372 www.most.org.pl/roee/ United States Paul A. Sobiech Water For People 6666 West Quicy Avenue Denver, CO 80235 USA Tel: (303) 734-3491 Fax: (303) 734-3499 www.water4people.org Ron Hoffer U.S. EPA 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (4607) Washington, DC 20460 USA Tel: (202)260-7096 Fax: (202)401-6135 hoffer.ron@epa.gov Key Results Many sustainable activities have been prompted by the Blue Thumb project including an annual "Water Week," citizens' water monitoring committees, field trips to local water and wastewater treatment plants, video programs, water-friendly awards, workshops for students and teachers, and the formation of Blue Thumb clubs. Over 140 clubs have been formed with more than 4,000 students and their teachers participat- ing. Membership and participation in Blue Thumb has been expanded to include business owners, city officials, water and sewage utility operators, civic leaders and the media in Krakow. THUMB KCIVK WATER For PEOPLE 11 ------- Water Protection Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview Poor agricultural and rural waste manage- ment practices contribute signifi- cantly to the degra- dation of surface and ground water quality, and may thus also affect urban popula- tions who depend on these sources for drinking water. As nearly 100 percent of Poland lies within the Baltic Basin, the effects of poor agricultural practices extend beyond Poland's borders and affect much of northern Europe through contamina- tion of the Baltic Sea. The Poland Agricul- ture and WaterQual- ity Protection Project was a four year effort, begun in 1992, designed to address agricultural water pollution issues through a multi- focused approach. This project ad- dressed these objectives through multi-level education efforts, assistance in policy development and demonstration of sustainable farming and waste manage- ment practices in selected watersheds in northeastern and northwestern Poland. Agriculture and Water Quality Project Approximately 38 percent of the Polish population lives in rural areas. The agricul- tural sector provides 25 percent of the employment and utilizes about 65 percent of the nation's land area. Thus, agriculture and related activities have a direct impact on large segments of the human population and ecological infrastructure of Poland. The Polish Agricultural Water Quality Project (PAWQP) was a cooperative effort between EPA and the Polish Ministry of Agriculture and Food Economy. The project was implemented by the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD) at Iowa State University in Ames, and the Institute for Land Reclamation and Grassland Farming (IMUZ) near Warsaw. Key Objectives Create a social, economic and political climate that encourages the recognition of agriculture related water quality issues Develop solutions for agriculture related water quality issues Promote institutional innovation and policy changes that can result in long-term commitment to sustainable agriculture and improved water quality in Poland. Project Activities Demonstration Farms Demonstration farms were developed to display economically and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices, encour- aging participation by farmers, agricultural advisory centers, local officials, schools and other agricultural professionals in adopting such practices in rural areas. These farms were used to demonstrate a wide range of environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural practices. The goal was to improve human and animal waste handling, agricultural chemical handling, runoff control, and erosion control while maintaining or improving production and profitability. Sustainable technologies and land management practices demonstrated on the farms included: Manure storage and handling Domestic waste water management Integrated fertilizer application methods Integrated pasture management Introduction of legume crops as nitrogen sources Introduction of clover onto grasslands No-tillage permanent grassland renovation Cover cropping. Education and Dissemination of Information Information on sustainable practices was given to the public, farmers, future farmers, govern- mental and non-governmental institutions and agricultural and environmental professionals. Through informative leaflets and training programs, the results from the farm demon- strations were extended broadly throughout Poland. The project team worked with an environmen- tal organization to organize and pilot a training program for local community leaders. The training demonstrated the benefits of merging advanced agriculture science and practice with well-trained local community leadership to solve agriculture and water quality problems and support longer-term economic and social development. .t*' Institutionalization and Policy Development Efforts were designed to provide a strong, broadly based foundation for development of sustainable agriculture in Poland. By assisting in the establishment of programs within central and regional governmental institutions to 12 ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Water Protection address agro-environmental issues and bridge institutional barriers, a closer cooper- ation between the agricultural and environ- mental research and regulatory communities was achieved. Specifically, the project established a work- ing group to coordinate activities between the Polish Ministries of Environment and Agriculture. An additional working group was established to assist the Ministry of Agriculture in developing the institutional capacity to address agro-environmental issues. Throughout the project, project staff coordinated closely with bilateral and multilateral donor organizations to leverage other sources of funding and to ensure the expansion of sustainable agricultural activi- ties throughout the region. Contacts Poland Andrzej Sapek Institute of Land Reclamation and Grassland Farming (IMUZ) Falenty 05-090 Raszyn, Poland Tel: (48-22) 720-0531 United States Walt Foster U.S. EPA 901 N. 5th Street (DISOENSV) Kansas City, KS 66101 USA Tel: (913) 551-7290 Fax: (913) 551-9290 foster.walt@epa.gov j $ I Key Results The demonstration farm project helped to secure financial commitments from Polish local and national government organizations. The project sponsored a large conference for decision-makers throughout Poland and surrounding Baltic Basin countries to exchange information on sustainable agriculture and rural development. Papers and reports were presented by project staff and published in a variety of fora in the United States and Europe. Based on the success of the project, a number of additional projects sponsored by the World Bank, Sweden, Denmark, France are now being implemented throughout Poland and the Baltic Sea region. 13 ------- Waste Management Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview Past efforts to reveg- etate coal and smelter waste pile sites in Katowice using topsoil were either too expensive (for the coal sites) or ineffective (for the smelter sites). From 1994 through 1999, a team of scientists from the United States and Poland worked cooperatively to develop a regional plan that would utilize biosolids (sewage sludge) from local wastewater treatment plants to revegetate the coal and smelter waste piles in the region. The team members represented the fields of wastewa- ter treatment, agronomy, and soil Biosolids Reclamation Project Although the revegetation of coal waste piles was often done with biosolids in the eastern part of the United States, no successful work had ever been done or documented on the more toxic smelter wastes anywhere in the world. The methodology developed for the Biosolids Reclamation Project proved to be a low- cost and effective solution and shows great potential use throughout the world, especially where cost is the greatest constraint to effective reclamation. Key Objectives Develop a regional plan to utilize biosolids from local wastewater treatment plants to revegetate several different types of coal and smelter waste piles in Poland Provide a remediation solution that was affordable in the local economy and which could be widely replicated Analyze soil samples to determine the geochemistry of the area in order to select the most suitable revegetation species. Project Activities Project Silesia From 1994 through 1999, a team of scien- tists from the United States and Poland worked cooperatively on the biosolids effort. The wastes found on the demonstration sites, especially the smelter waste sites, were phytotoxic (poisonous to plants) and contained high levels of lead, cadmium and zinc. The team determined that a combination of biosolids and lime would be the key compo- nents of the revegetation effort. The limestone is needed to adjust the acidity level of the soil. The biosolids supplied high levels of phos- phate, iron, organic nitrogen, other organic mater and soil microbes. This combination proved to be a suitable growing medium which reduced soil acidity (pH) and counteracted the bio-availability of the lead. In order to authen- ticate the methodology and to ensure that it could be replicated at other sites, careful scientific methods and documentation were used. Analyzing the Geochemisty and Choosing a Tolerant Grass Before any work was performed on the sites, samples needed to be taken and analyzed. This analysis included pH, total sulfur, zinc, cadmium and lead as well as electrical conduc- tivity and solubility. Next, dozens of metal- and salt- tolerant grasses and cultivars were grown in laboratory test pots containing the waste materials in order to evaluate the best species for application at the sites. Based on the results, a mixture of several species of grasses and legumes were selected and used. Legumes were determined to be important in include in the vegetative cover because they are long lasting and help replace nitrogen in the soil. Grass species selected needed to be resistant to both salinity and heavy metals. Raising the pH After the sites were graded, a 15-centimeter layer of waste lime (a waste product of the coal mining process) was applied. A mixture of biosolids, additional waste lime and smelter waste was plowed and incorporated in the upper level of the smelter sites. The waste lime 14 ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Waste Management was added to raise the pH. Raising the pH suppresses the migration and plant uptake of heavy metals which cause the phytotoxi- city. Only high quality biosolids (low in contaminants and pathogens) were used. The chemical and physical properties of the biosolids are able to restore soil-like charac- teristics and fertility to many different waste sites, barren areas, or deserts where water retention and fertility limit plant growth. Also, biosolids have the ability to limit the uptake of heavy metals into the plant's root system in a pH controlled or adjusted environment. Virginia Tech Contacts Poland Thomas Stuczynski Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation Pulawy, Poland Tel: (48-83)831-3421 Fax: (48-83) 831-4537 ts@iung.pulawy.pl Franciszek Pistelok Center for Environmental Survey and Control ul. Owocowa 8 40-158 Katowice, Poland Tel: (48-32) 599-616 Fax: (48-32) 597-030 United States Kenneth Pantuck U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3WP21) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215)814-5769 Fax: (215)814-2318 pantuck.kenneth@epa.gov W. Lee Daniels Department of Crop and Soil Sciences Virginia Technical University Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA Tel: (540)231-7175 Fax: (540)231-7630 wdaniels@vt.edu Key Results The methodology developed by the project provides a template for remediating similar sites in other locations around the world. The methodology provides for the benefi- cial use of two waste products: biosolids and lime. The methodology is inexpensive and highly effective, especially when compared to the cost and effectiveness of using topsoil for reclama- tion. The beneficial use of biosolids is an important aspect of a regional sludge management program. The vegetative cover on the waste piles reduces wind and water erosion of metal-rich dusts and the associated medical risks from inhalation and ingestion. The vegetative cover decreases erosion and run off contamination of surface and groundwater supplies. The project has improved aesthetic and social value for the communities which surround the sites. 15 ------- Waste Management Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview The goal of the Underground Storage Tank (UST) Project was to assist local deci- sion-makers in Katowice to develop an underground storage tank manage- ment program and to identify gasoline stations in the Upper Silesia region which require an environmen- tal assessment. To meet this goal, EPA partnered with a project development and implementation team consisting of representatives from the Regional Imple- mentation Unit (RIU), the Center for Environ- mental Survey and Control (OBiKS), and the Voivodship Inspectorate for Environmental Protec- tion (WIOS ). The team developed and implemented a pilot program for the inventory, reconnais- sance, prioritization, and assessment of leaking underground storage tank facilities in the Katowice Underground Storage Tank Project As of 1994, Poland had minimal require- ments for the assessment or remediation of leaking underground storage tanks which have the potential to endanger underground water supplies, surface water supplies (such as streams), and nearby homes. Historically, underground storage tanks were not installed with corrosion protection or leak detection. Unprotected tanks and piping eventually corrode and leak, but without systems for detection, leaks may continue to contaminate the subsurface for a long time before there are obvious impacts. Although Poland has general requirements for periodic tank tightness testing, there currently are no specific requirements for ongoing leak detection at existing underground storage tanks in Poland. Key Objectives Assist local decision-makers in develop- ing an underground storage tank manage- ment program Identify underground storage tanks which require an environmental assess- ment Train local officials to assess leaking underground storage tanks Develop a process to inventory and prioritize underground storage tank sites Assess gasoline stations in order of environmental priority to prepare for remediation. Project Activities Training to Assess Leaks in Under- gound Storage Tanks In May 1995, EPA provided training to techni- cal representatives from various provincial and local governments, industry, private environ- mental consulting firms, as well as representa- tives from the Czech Republic. The objective of the training was to present methods in assess- ing whether underground storage tanks at gasoline stations are leaking and in determin- ing the magnitude and extent of the leaks. In the classroom, EPA provided a framework for conducting site assessments. In order to reinforce classroom presentations and to give opportunities to practice what was learned, the participants also conducted an actual field assessment of a gasoline station. The field assessment included sampling of soil, soil gas, groundwater, and surface water. A semi- quantitative field analytical method was used so that data would be readily available for review. The students were then able to use this "real time" data to develop their own conclu- sions. The use of an actual assessment reinforced classroom discussions and exercises demon- strated some of the logistical difficulties that always arise in field work, and challenged preconceptions of the class. For example, many participants thought it would be highly unlike- ly for the tanks or piping at the gasoline station to be leaking since the station was only 15 years old and well maintained. These perceptions changed after the participants found contami- nated soil and groundwater during the assess- ment. Inventory and Prioritization: Creating Tools for Decision-Making During the second phase of the project, EPA's main role was as facilitator leading discussions among Polish experts on identifying sites, collecting site information, and prioritizing actions. On the basis of these discussions, the project team developed a process to gather and verify this information, then developed a computer database and a method to prioritize the sites. 16 ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Waste Management To manage all of the data collected, the project team developed a flexible computer database system to be used as a decision- making tool which could contain scanned maps as well as detailed facility information. In a workshop held in Katowice in 1997, EPA facilitated discussions to determine the parameters to use to prioritize the sites. By selecting certain attributes and deciding how these attributes should be considered, the project team was able to develop an algorithm which ranked the gasoline stations in the database relative to their potential for leaking. Reconnaissance and Assessment By the fall of 1998, the project team began conducting reconnaissance visits at 12 gasoline stations in the Katowice Voivodship. As a result of the reconnaissance visits, the project team updated the information in the database and re-ranked the sites. One site was selected from the re-ranked list and a full environmental site assessment was conducted in November 1998. Contacts Poland Wojciech Stawiany Center for Environmental Survey and Control ul. 8 Owocowa 8 40-158 Katowice, Poland Tel: (48-32) 599-616 Fax: (48-32) 597-030 United States Cheryl Atkinson U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3EDOO) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215) 814-3392 Fax:(215)814-5718 atkinson.cheryl@epa.gov Joel Hennessy U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3WC11) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel. (215)814-3390 Fax (215) 814-3113 hennessy.joel@epa.gov Key Results In December 1998, the project team held a final workshop and project closeout seminar in Katowice to present the computer database and ranking system along with the results of the reconnaissance visits and site assessment. The workshop high- lighted the need for the control of surface spillage at every gasoline station, as well as the need for ground- water monitoring to act as a leak detection mechanism at older stations. The Voivodship Inspectorate now has a computerized data-base system to use as a tool for the continuation of assessments at gaso- line stations. \ 17 ------- Waste Management Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview Stimulating the safe redevelopment of environmentally compromised proper- ties --which are commonly are referred to as Brownfields-- is a significant concern to the local officials. Due to the high population density and past and present industrial activities, the remaining "green fields" - or open space tracts -- are limited and, therefore, highly valued. There are many tracts of land which have been impacted by past industrial practices that are not being adequately utilized. These abandoned or under-utilized proper- ties often have existing or near-by infrastructure (i.e., roads, railroad tracks and utilities) making these properties, but for environmental concerns, prime candidates for redevelopment. Brownfields Redevelopment Project EPA and its Polish partners conducted a pilot study to evaluate the safe conversion of a property formerly used for zinc smelting and the manufacture of metallic oxides to productive future use as an industrial park. The former Warynski smelter property is situated in Katowice Voivodship, located in the Upper Silesia Region in southern Poland. Emphasis was placed on utilizing this pilot project to begin to establish uniform processes for assessing environmental risk which could be replicated at other properties in the future. The Warynski Smelter property encom- passes approximately 60 hectares located in the gmina (city) of Piekary Slaskie. Smelting and other operations related to mineral ore processes were conducted on the property from 1927 - 1990. The owner of the Warynski site, Orzel Bialy, has decommissioned and dismantled the smelter and other buildings to ground level. The site is no longer in use by the company. The entire property is covered with a thick layer of mining wastes which looks like soil, but it is rich in heavy metals (cadmium, lead and zinc) and is more acidic than natural soil. The proper- ty is sparsely vegetated because the waste material is toxic to most plants. Current Polish law requires that industrial users return a property to "natural bal- ance" when they are finished with a property. However, the "natural balance" standard is undefined and difficult to enforce as the state formerly owned most of the polluting industries. It is generally understood that the respective gmina makes a case-by-case determination as to whether or not a property has been returned to natural balance, releasing the former user of further restoration respon- sibilities. Piekary Slaskie officials were interested in acquiring or facilitating the legal transfer of the property provided that it is safe for prospective users. They believe that the community would benefit if the property were converted into one or more of several uses, in order of priority: industrial park; recreational; retail outlets or shopping center; and/or a solid waste landfill. Piekary Slaskie officials determined that their highest priority was to move existing mini- industries out of residential areas. It was their strong desire to locate both existing and newly formed mini-industries to an industrial park to be created on the former Warynski property. Public park lands and athletic fields are also a priority in the region. The project team, led by the Institute of Ecolo- gy of Industrial Areas (IETU), included the Orzel Bialy Mining and Metallurgical Works (current owner), the Piekary Slaskie gmina (responsible for land use planning) and EPA. EPA provided technical assistance to the IETU team throughout the project. IETU utilized Polish technical contractors to perform select activities. Additional funding was provided by the Katowice Voivodship Fund for Environmen- tal Protection and Water Management. Key Objectives Assess the health risks to industrial workers, recreational users and construction workers, associated with the redevelopment of the property Identify cost-effective construction methods to allow safe reuse of the property Project Activities Assessing Risk With the current owner no longer using the property and the gmina interested in putting the property back into productive use, a risk assessment was conducted to determine whether prospective users would be subjected to increased health risks if no special construc- tion methods were employed to address the 18 ------- A Decade of EPA- Polish Cooperation Waste Management mining wastes. IETU toxicologists per- formed the human health risk assessment utilizing standard EPA methods which were provided during a 1995 risk assessment training in Katowice. Planning for Redevelopment According to current plans, the property would be subdivided into parcels suitable for small businesses. Construction activities would include installation of subsurface utilities (i.e., water, sewer, electric) in "clean trenches" leading to each parcel. The clean trenches would allow future maintenance activities to be performed without risk to workers. The land surface in the vicinity of each business would be capped with con- crete to reduce potential exposure to indus- trial workers and their customers. The concrete would provide a durable wear surface which is suitable for light industrial traffic. The surrounding areas would be revegetated to cover exposed waste material and reduce resuspension of metal dust. The revegetation component of the project would utilize soil conditioning and pH adjustment techniques developed in the biosolids project described previously. Institutional controls would need to be placed on the redeveloped property to ensure that prospective land users are aware of the subsurface contamina- tion and that the integrity of the concrete cap is maintained. Contacts Poland Rafal Kucharski Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas (IETU) 6 Kossutha Street 40-833 Katowice, Poland Tel: (48-32) 254-6031, ext. 296 Fax: (48-32)254-1717 sas@letu.katowice.pl Eleonora Weislo Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas (IETU) 6 Kossutha Street 40-833 Katowice, Poland Tel: (48-32) 254-0029 Fax: (48-32) 254-1717 wci@ietu. katowice. pi United States Eric Newman U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3HS23) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215)814-3237 Fax:(215)814-3002 newman.eric@epa.gov Dawn loven U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3HS41) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215)814-3320 Fax:(215)814-3015 ioven.dawn@epa.gov Key Results Risk assessment and environmental data were collected for future use in the redevelopment of the Warynski site. The future land use for the Warynski property has been determined to be most suitable for an industrial park. Brownfields redevelopment techniques were developed which can now be replicated at other sites in the Voivodship and elsewhere in Poland. 19 ------- Policy Demonstrations Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview The large number of abandoned and underutilized indus- trial sites throughout Poland require the development of policies, strategies and programs which will encourage the redevelopment of those sites. In order to develop workable policies and programs, officials need to have a common under- standing of the current situation in order to move forward. The Brownfields Policy Development Project brings stakeholders together in the Katowice region to address the brownfields issues using their knowledge and experience to show that brownfields do not need to be percieved as a problem but, rather a hidden resource with a great potential to enhance economic renewal. Brownfields Policy Project EPA and the Slaskie (Katowice) Voivodship have been involved in a variety of land recycling and redevelopment (brownfields) activities. Initially, EPA provided support for several seminars to be conducted by the United States Environmental Training Institute (USETI) providing an introduc- tion to the basic concepts involved in brownfields redevelopment. EPA also worked cooperatively with the Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas (IETU), the city of Piekary Slaskie, and officials from Orzel Bialy smelter to redevelop a pilot brownfield site as described previously. While the conduct of the pilot project had significant merits in demonstrating the usefulness of following a step-by-step program for the development of a particu- lar brownfield site, it did not address the broader issues of policy development and program development and implementation on a Voivodship-wide basis. Based on discussions between EPA and the Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas in Katow- ice (IETU), it was determined that a Steering Committee should be established in order to determine the future of brown- fields redevelopment on a regional basis. Working with the Slaskie Voivodship Marshals Office and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, an initial group of regional and local officials, city and urban planners, as well as academicians with an interest and/or knowledge of brownfields issues was assembled. Key Objectives Determine what benefits and barriers exist to the development of brownfields in the Katowice region Determine what measures need to be taken at the national, regional and local level to overcome the identified barriers Determine the relevant stakeholders at the national, regional and local level Use the information and data gathered from the process to develop a brownfields policy for the region Use the policy to develop and implement brownfields programs and initiatives. Project Activities Initial Meeting of Steering Commitee The inaugural meeting of the "High Level Steering Committee for the Establishment of a Brownfields Program in the Slaskie Voivodship" was held in May 1999. At that meeting, the Steering Commitee determined the major impediments to brownfields redevelopment and prioritized them in basic categories. Each category was then assigned to a sub-committee for exploration. The chairs of the subcommit- tees agreed to report their findings at the second meeting. Four Committees Created The steering committee established six areas of concern and grouped them into four research committees. The charge to the committees was to detail the specific barriers to brownfields redevelopment within the topic assigned to the committee, identify possible solutions, and make recommendations for further actions. Second Meeting of Steering Committee The second meeting of the Steering Commitee was held in December 1999. Each committee gave a short oral presentation of their written reports. The reports detailed and expanded on the barriers to brownfields redevelopment; how to overcome those barriers; how to create incentives for brownfields development; and, how to set appropriate clean-up standards that would facilitate redevelopment while protect- ing human health and the environment. Among the key themes identified for further discussion were the regional role vis-a-vis 20 ------- A Decade of EPA- Polish Cooperation Policy Demonstrations brownfields policy and program develop- ment; the role of local authorities; resource allocation for the implementation of policies and programs; the necessity to develop an inventory of possible brownfields sites; and site prioritization. Coordination with the Slaskie Parliament The Steering Commitee determined that it was necessary to coordinate with the local Parliament regarding the development of brownfields policy. An effort to formalize the Steering Committee within the structure of the Voivodship and the local Parliament was undertaken. Contacts Poland Iza Ratman-Klosinska Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas (IETU) 6 Kossutha Street 40-833 Katowice, Poland Tel: (48-32) 254-6031, ext. 269 Fax: (48-32) 254-1717 rat@ietu.katowice.pl United States Franceses Di Cosmo U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3DAOO) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215)814-5549 Fax: (215)814-2901 dicosmo.francesca@epa.gov Key Results The Brownfields Steering Committee within the Voivodship structure has been formally established. Preliminary research has been completed on the barriers and benefits of brownfields redevel- opment. The brownfields strategy identification process has begun to be developed. Further development of roles and responsibil- ities both inside and outside of the Steering Committee has been accomplished. A distribution system of reports and informa- tion to key decision- makers has been developed. The roles of funding organizations including the National Fund, Voivodship Fund, EcoFund, and State Treasury Fund have been expanded. 21 ------- Policy Demonstrations Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview The Local Environmen- tal Action Plan (LEAP) Pilot Project in Poland began in 1994 to demonstrate concrete examples and new approaches to local environmental man- agement and sustain- able economic development. The demonstration communities of Radom and Elk revealed how local governments and citizen-based commit- tees can work to- gether to implement low-cost solutions to solve pressing local environmental issues by setting environ- mental priorities, educating and involv- ing the public, and developing local environmental action plans. In addition to EPA funding, this project also received financial support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and the German Marshall Fund. Local Environmental Action Program (LEAP): Pilot Phase Beginning in the early 1990s, Poland adopted new laws that increased local governments' responsibilities to manage environmental problems and stimulate local economic development. Over the last ten years, Polish communities have made significant environmental improvements. However, the environmental and economic issues facing Polish communities have been so vast, that there has been a grow- ing need for a system that helps target limited financial resources toward the most urgent environmental problems. Working with the U.S.-based Institute for Sustainable Communities (ISC) and its Polish partner, the Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD), two pilot communities in Poland created Local Environmental Action Plans (LEAPs) to prioritize their problems. LEAPs rank environmental problems, identify cost-effective strategies for environmental protection, and involve the public in important community decisions. Radom and Elk, the two pilot communi- ties, offer a model for setting environmen- tal priorities, developing a plan of action for solving these problems, getting the community involved in the process, and successfully implementing solutions. Key Objectives Identify and rank local environmental problems according to relative risks to human health, ecological systems, and quality of lif e Develop a Local Environmental Action Plan (LEAP) that identifies specific strategies for reducing the most severe environmental risks and implement the most cost-effective strategies Promote public awareness and understand- ing of environmental issues to increase public support for environmental investments Strengthen the capacity of local and regional government to manage and implement envi- ronmental programs Disseminate and replicate the skills and experience gained in the demonstration communities to a broader number of Polish municipalities. Project Activities Establishing Environmental Priorities In September 1995, the Radom Project Commit- tee identified depletion of the deep groundwa- ter aquifer and air pollution from transporta- tion sources as the two top priority problems facing the community. The Elk Project Com- mittee identified pollution of Lake Elk and air pollution from low-level emission sources as the top two priorities in October 1995. Creating Local Environmental Action Plans and Implementation Plans Local project committees prepared LEAPs that identified a range of strategies for solving the top priority problems in each community. The Radom and Elk City Councils approved these plans in March 1997. Soliciting Public Involvement Project committee members set environmental priorities and developed appropriate solutions to these problems and initiated numerous public outreach activities to involve the greater community. The Radom project committee hosted a tree planting activity for Earth Day 1996 which involved 2,000 residents, while in Elk, the project committee sponsored a series of "family bicycle days" to tour the recently developed bicycle route. 22 ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Policy Demonstrations Implementing Water Conservation Programs The Radom Regional Environmental Education Center implemented a comprehensive water conservation education program through the city. After the pilot program has been complet- ed, the municipality plans to expand the program to the rest of the city based upon a careful evaluation of the pilot stage. Constructing a Purification System The municipality of Elk recently completed construction of a purification system for storm waters entering Lake Elk. The system will remove crude oil derivatives from 60% of the storm waters flowing in Elk. Disseminating Results ISC and ISO representatives participated in numerous forums promoting the project, including a presentation at the Environmental Action Program (EAP) Task Force in Warsaw in February 1996. ISD published five issues of the newsletter, Rad-Elku Bulletin, providing project updates to 200 interested communities and observers. Copies of the project's final report were distributed to 250 municipalities. Contacts Poland Andrzej Kassenberg Institute for Sustainable Development ul. Lowicka 31 02502 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22) 646-0510 Fax: (48-22) 646-0174 ine@ikp.atm.com.pl Jerzy Borycki Radom Technical University Chrobrego 27 26-600 Radom, Poland Tel: (48-48) 341-509 borycki@kivx.man.radom.pl Slawomir Chilicki Municipality of Elk ul. Marszalka J. Pilsudskiego 4 19-300 Elk, Poland Tel: (48-87) 1Q-37-14 slawomir-chilicki@elknet.pl United States Paul Markowitz Institute for Sustainable Communities 56 College Street Montpelier, VT 05602 USA Tel: (802) 229-2900 Fax:(802)229-2919 pm@iscvt.org Key Results The municipality of Radom, with assistance from an ISC/EPA grant, completed installation of water saving equipment in a total of 1800 residences. The community surrounding Lake Elk is moving closer to making Elk a sustainable city. Projects have begun to be replicated in other communities with similar issues. The LEAP methodology and U.S. experiences on local environmental management was transferred successfully to Poland. Polish experts gained an enhanced knowledge of comparative risk analysis methodology, as well as techniques for enhancing public participation. 23 ------- Policy Demonstrations Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview The replication phase of the Local Environ- mental Action Program (LEAP) in Poland was designed to promote the broadest possible dissemination of LEAPs to municiplities throughout the country. The main goals of the LEAP replication phase were to reduce implementa- tion costs (by eliminat- ing much of the direct involvement of U.S. experts), and to revise the LEAP methodology to reflect Polish conditions. This was accomplished by working in several Polish municipalities facing different environmental chal- lenges, which were selected through a national competition. Local Environmental Action Program (LEAP): Replication Phase Based on the success of the pilot phase of the Local Environmental Action Program (LEAP) in Radom and Elk, EPA became convinced that the LEAP frame- work could make a useful contribution to sustainable development planning in Poland. However, it was clear that wide- spread dissemination could not happen without first adapting the U.S.-developed methodology to reflect conditions in Poland. In addition, it was necessary to reduce the significant implementation costs which generally would be beyond the reach of most Polish municipalities. In an effort to accomplish these dual objectives, EPA entered into a cooperative agreement with the Polish National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (the National Fund), which agreed to serve as the Polish national coordinator for the LEAP replication effort. Using funding from EPA, the National Fund sponsored an open tender for a Polish team to manage the LEAP replication phase. The tender was won by a consortium consisting of the National Foundation for Environmental Protection and COWI-Polska. The management team held an open competition to select several Polish communities to participate in the LEAP replication program. Key Objectives Encourage replication of the LEAP methodology throughout Poland Facilitate adaptation of LEAP method- ology to reflect Polish conditions Decrease implementation costs and increase dissemination of LEAP approach. Project Activities As a result of a national competition, the communities of Starogard Gdanski and Chelm were selected to undergo a complete LEAP process assisted by the Polish management team. In addition, the communities of Tczew and the powiat (municipal association) of Aleksandrow Kujawski were selected to undergo an abbreviated LEAP process. This decision was intended to meet the particular needs of these communities, while providing a unique opportunity to make the LEAP method- ology as flexible as possible for communities unable to devote the time and resources to the full 18-month process. Detailed Environmental Action Plans Based on Community Input and Priorities With active support from the Polish project management team, each participating commu- nity produced a detailed action plan to address local environmental priorities based on a participatory and transparent process. Increased Attention to Benefit-Cost Analysis The Polish LEAP replication process focused to a greater extent on assisting community experts to determine appropriate environmen- tal actions based on an assessment of relative benefits and costs. This aspect of environmen- tal decision-making had not been addressed as directly in previous iterations of LEAP. In fact, a simple, user-friendly model was developed within the framework of the project to assist community decision-makers in conducting simple benefit-cost analyses. 4 Training Course for Regional Officials Another product developed within the LEAP replication project was an intensive, three-day course for regional officials designed to famil- iarize them with the components of the LEAP process. The initial training was provided for approximately fifty officials from the Lublin and Kielce regions of Poland in November 1999. Based on the success of this training, the 24 ------- A Decade of EPA- Polish Cooperation Policy Demonstrations materials currently are being translated into English so that they can be made available to LEAP practitioners in other countries, particu- larly in Central and Eastern Europe. Innovative Information Campaign to Disseminate LEAP After the conclusion of the LEAP process in the selected communities, and with the assistance of the National Fund, the Polish project man- agement team printed a LEAP brochure, a detailed LEAP Guide, and recorded compact disks (CDs) describing the LEAP process. The team also made several speeches on public radio and published articles in newspapers and magazines. The brochure and CD is being mailed to communities, powiats and regional authorities. Additional information on LEAP activities in Poland also is available on their website: www.las.info.pl Contacts Poland: Ryszard Jacek Rogowski National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management Konstruktorska 3A 02-673 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22) 849-0079 Fax: (48-22) 849-2098 rjr@nfosigw.gov.pl Tomasz Podgajniak Beata Wiszniewska National Foundation for Environmental Protection Krzywickiego 9 02-078 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22) 8,25-1428 Fax: (48-22) 825-2127 nfos@warman.com.pl Key Results: The LEAP methodology was successfully adapted to Polish conditions with little outside involvement. A variety of Polish communitites had an opportunity to utilize the LEAP process to make decisions on environmental issues with broad public participation. An active media campaign and training for local officials has created an increased demand for LEAPs in all parts of Poland. United States: Anna Phillips U.S. EPA 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. (2650R) Washington, DC 20460 USA Tel: (202) 564-6419 Fax:(202)565-2412 phillips.anna@epa.gov National Foundation for Environmental Protection 25 ------- Policy Demonstrations Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview A negotiated compli- ance program sched- ules the completion of various environmental improvements that will achieve full environ- mental compliance with the law at an individual facility. The goal of the EPA compliance project was to increase the role of local govern- ment in the implemen- tation of national and regional environmental policy in Poland. Under the proposed use of compliance periods, local govern- ment can actively participate in the process of formulating the content of envi- ronmental commit- ments of facilities that affect the environment in their area. This allows the opinion of the local community to be taken into account and will increase public participation in the decision-making process. Enforcement and Compliance Project The goal of this project was to provide a legal basis for the negotiation of compliance agreements between Polish inspectors and industrial facilities, in order to improve environmental performance and compli- ance with regulations. Previously, Polish inspectors would assess fines for non- compliance, and industry would either not pay, or pay without making the necessary changes to processes which created the pollution. With a negotiated compliance agreement in place, government inspectors agree to a phased-in approach to pollution reduction in exchange for the commitment of the regulated industry to make the necessary technical and financial invest- ments. This results in significant environ- mental improvement over the medium and long-term. EPAs primary partner for this project was the Polish State Inspectorate for Environmental Protection (GIOS). Key Objectives Evaluate different compliance models for application in Poland Develop proposals for changes to the current enforcement framework Introduce the practice of specifying compliance periods as a part of the issuing of environmental permits Develop a training course to enhance the negotiation skills of all stakeholders as a means for developing and implementing compliance schedules in the future Project Activities Proposing New Solutions to the Current Enforcement Framework Teams were formed both in Poland and in the United States to study and evaluate different compliance models. During the first phase of the project, the U.S. and Polish teams con- ducted a series of information exchanges and study tours which resulted in the submission of a program of solutions and changes to the current enforcement framework in Poland. Once the Polish team developed a working proposal, there was a considerable effort to meet with various stakeholders in the Polish environmental community to understand their concerns and needs as it related to the proposal. It was recognized that for this new mechanism to become a part of the Polish environmental compliance program, legisla- tive changes were necessary and would need to be incorporated into the government's European Union harmonization efforts. The centerpiece for this harmonization effort is the new draft environmental framework law for Poland in which the compliance programs concept has been incorporated. Addressing Negotiation Issues Concerns were raised by stakeholders relat- ing to the components of a negotiated compli- ance agreement. In response, the Polish team contracted with the law department of a Polish university to research these issues. In addition, EPA wrote and presented papers on U.S. practices to provide possible models. Testing of Compliance Program Concept The goal of the second phase of the project was to introduce the practice of specifying compliance periods as a part of the issuing of environmental permits. Four facilities were identified by the Polish State Inspectorate as demonstration sites: Hutu Cynku "Miasteczko Slaskie" (Katowice) Huta "Czestochowa" (Czestochowa) Petrochemia Flock SA (Plock) 26 ------- A Decade of EPA-Polish Cooperation Policy Demonstrations Zaklady Szotowe "Kedzierzyn" SA (Opole) Each of the firms are included on the "List of 80" worst polluters in Poland. By participat- ing in the test negotiations, the facilities, if successful, were given conditional removal from the "List of 80". Conducting Negotiations Training EPA was asked by its Polish partners to develop a negotiation course tailored to the compliance process. A three-day compliance negotiations training course was conducted in June 1997 for all participants in the four pilot negotiation projects and other inspec- torate officials. The course focused on the basic principles of negotiations, helped the participants build skills in two-party and multi-party negotiations, and presented a framework which the stakeholders could actually use during the demonstration project negotiations. For the purposes of the demonstration project, the course was delivered as a workshop. In September 1999, the course was again presented to other individuals who may be involved in further pilot negotiations. A cadre of in-country facilitators was trained so that the course could be delivered on a continuous basis. Contacts Poland Andrzej Miloszewski Inspectorate for Environmental Protection (GIOS) Ministry of Environment 52/54 Wawelska Street 00-922 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22)825-1524 Zbigniew Kamienski Dept. of Environmental Protection Ministry of the Environment 52/54 Wawelska Street 00-922 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22)825-8473 zbigkam@mos.gov.pl United States Thomas Maslany U.S. EPA 1650 Arch Street (3WPOO) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215)814-2050 Fax: (215)814-2301 maslany.tnomas@epa.gov Key Results The negotiation process encouraged facilities, regulators, and local communities to view the development of a compliance program as a collective task that focused on solving environmental problems in a way that best meets each of their respective needs. The training and participation in the negotiation process has improved the skills of facility management in other business areas. Polish experts agreed that the law needs to be amended to formally recognize this process and provide greater flexibility for the negotiators. The team agreed that additional economic incentives and accountability mechanisms to promote responsible enterprise behavior should be considered. The team also agreed that the program can be expanded to include facilities which are included on the "list of 80" but are exeriencing compliance problems. 27 ------- Education and Training Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview With EPA support and working with local non- govern- mental organiza- tions (NGOs), universities, and government agencies, the Institute for Sustainable Communities (ISC) helped establish the Environmental Management Training Center (EMTC) in Poland. The EMTC's goal is to improve environ- mental management capacity through training, informa- tion dissemination, and networking activities. The EMTC project was an integral part of the EPA's environmental and institutional strengthening assistance activities in Poland. Environmental Management Training Center (EMTC) Project The idea for EMTCs evolved after discussions with governmental officials and knowledge- able NGOs in various countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). These discussions revealed that the successful integration of environmental protection activities into processes of economic restructuring and revitalization required the establishment of effective environmental management training organizations and adequately trained staff to manage and operate them. Key Objectives Increase the governmental, insititutional, and public capacity for effective environmen- tal decision making and management in Poland Improve the skills and knowledge of a wide range of Polish professionals working with national, regional, and local governments, industry, NGOs, universities and others in the environmental field Improve communication and information dissemination as well as establish collaborative relationships among various governmental agencies, local organizations and professionals working in the field of environment Create a corps of Polish trainers able to design and deliver appropriate courses in the field of environmental policy and management Create a sustainable institution able to coordinate the delivery of trainings Project Activities Training Courses A two-step "train-the-trainer" approach was used at the Polish EMTC. EPA staff trained local facilitators who, in turn, adapted and delivered courses. Course materials included a number of environmental management topics. EPA facilatators conducted the first delivery of a course to local trainers. The local trainers then worked with the the EPA facilitators in order to prepare to deliver the courses on their own. Ultimately, local trainers took over course delivery entirely. With each course delivery, the materials were adapted to use greater amounts of local data and case studies. The courses included: Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Environmental Impact Assessment Risk Assessment Hazardous Waste Site Ranking Environmental Economics Environmental Policy Environmental Auditing Chemical Preparedness and Prevention Public Outreach Financing Environmental Investments Contract Management Community Environmental Action Planning .: Solid Waste Management Planning Environmental Impact Assessment II (Polish-designed course) Training of Trainers (facilitation skills) Fundraising for NGOs 28 ------- A Decade of EPA- Polish Cooperation Education and Training EMTC Network In addition to the Polish EMTC, ISC has also helped to establish EMTCs in Hungary, Bulgaria, Russia and Ukraine with EPA sup- port. To further support the EMTCs in all countries and to build capacity for shared fundraising projects, an EMTC Network based at the Regional Environmental Center (REC) in Hungary was established. This network provided the EMTCs with a newsletter, elec- tronic bulletin board, and conferences to facilitate communication and share successes and concerns. Affiliation with the REC also facilitated the EMTCs' access to European and other funding sources. Contacts Poland Zbigniew Naklicki Environmental Management Training Center ul. Zwirki i Wigury 93 02-089 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22) 658-38-19 Fax: (48-22)658-38-90 emtc@free.ngo.pl United States Jill Arace Institute for Sustainable Communities 56 College Street Montpelier, VT 05602 USA Tel: (802)229-2900 Fax: (802)229-2919 jarace@iscvt.org Key Results An independent center was estab- lished to deliver on- going trainings that is self-sustaining through contracts, fees, and diversifica- tion of donors. EPA modules were adapted and deliv- ered on a variety of environmental management topics. Building the capacity of Polish facilitators allowed these trainers to continue to deliver trainings without outside assistance. A total of 131 trainings on 16 topics were delivered to 2,817 participants from government agencies, universi- ties, industries, private enterprises and NGOs through mid-1998. ------- Education and Training Promoting a Sustainable Future: Project Overview In April 1994, with support from EPA, the Institute for Sustainable Communitites (ISC) began a pilot project to assist in the development of community- based environmental education curricu- lum for middle schools and teacher training colleges in Poland. The project was named "Krag", symbolizing a group of people with linked arms singing around a traditional Polish campfire. ISC worked in partner- ship with the Regional Center for Environmental Education (RCEE) in Plock to assist Polish communities and schools in developing commu- nity- based environ- mental education materials for grades 4-8. Krag Environmental Education Project The Institute for Sustainable Communities (ISC) uses a community-based approach to education which bridges school-based learning and real life community issues. It is designed to prepare young people and their teachers to understand the complex relation- ships among the environment, society and economy, and to develop their skills to make scientifically grounded and socially respon- sible decisions about their future. The Krag Environmental Education Project introduced interactive, community-based education methods to teachers and teacher trainers in Poland through a pilot project in the Voivodship of Plock. The middle school environmental education curricula devel- oped and the courses adopted by the teacher training college in Plock were replicated in 150 communities throughout Poland. The Krag project continues to support replication activities and has helped secure government funding for community- based environmen- tal education throughout Poland. Key Objectives Demonstrate specific environmental education activities to Polish teachers including practical, hands-on approaches to learning and teaching Assist the Plock RCEE in working with schools to develop and implement communi- ty- based environmental education curricula for grades 4-8 Assist in the development of an on-going, self-sustaining network of teachers and non- governmental organizations to support the advancement of environmental education Share program results widely to stimulate the establishment of new community- based environmental education projects in Poland by replicating the project and by preparing Polish teachers to be workshop trainers Provide organizational and technical support to schools as they develop and implement an environmental education program Strengthen the institutional capacity of the Plock RCEE to provide targeted environmental education trainings to additional Voivodships in Poland and to disseminate the lessons learned in Plock to a national audience. Project Activities Teacher Training for Environmental Eduation During the first 18 months of Project Krag, teachers, professors, governmental officials, and representatives of NGOs and industry participated in a series of four training work- shops in community-based curriculum devel- opment; hands-on teaching methodologies; team building; and field-based environmental education. Three new training manuals consisting of high quality environmental education materials were translated and distributed at the workshops. The 50 partici- pants, primarily educators, became enthusias- tic leaders in promoting community- based environmental education curricula and activi- ties in their local communities. Development of Curriculum Models The curriculum developed for grades 4-8 provides a framework covering a wide array of environmental issues. Communities can then add their own data to meet local needs. Building a Network of Environmental Educators While most participants were from the demon- stration region, the Plock Voivodship, represen- tatives from Gdansk, Olsztyn, Zamosc, Radom, and Elk also attended the workshops. This helped form a network of environmental educators in Poland. 30 ------- A Decade of EPA- Polish Cooperation Education and Training Disseminating Information to Environmental Educators Phase I culminated in a Project Krag environ- mental education conference in December 1995, which included the dissemination of the high qualtiy project curriculum and newsletter to a national audience of 100 participants. Replicating Community-Based Environmental Education With the success of Phase I of the project, the Polish National Fund for Environmental Protection and the EPA funded Phase n in 1996-1997 so that the project could be adapted in three new Polish regions: Suwalki, Sieradz, and Skierniewice. Contacts Poland Katarzyna Rogucka- Maciejowska Plock Regional Center for Environmental Education Stary Rynek 20 09-400 Plock, Poland Tel: (48-24) 268-3774 Fax: (48-24)268-377424 plorcee@plohp.plock.ids.edu.pl Witold Lenart Center for Environmental Studies University of Warsaw ul. Zwirki I Wigury 93 02- 089 Warsaw, Poland Tel: (48-22) 820-0381, ext. 688 Fax: (48-22)826-1965 amagnusz@plearn.edu.pl United States Andrea Deri Institute for Sustainable Communitites (ISC) 56 College Street Montpelier, VT 05602 USA Tel: (802) 229-2900 Fax: (802)229-2919 aderi@iscvt.org Key Results The RCEE devel- oped a popular and replicable teacher training program in Poland that has targeted approximate- ly 750 educators to date. The project partners developed a high quality curriculum and education guide with lesson plans in the communities of Plock Kutno, and Zychlin written by Polish educators. The Project Krag newletter provided Polish educators with a much-needed forum for exchanging information and experiences related to their environmental education work. With funds from the GE Fund, ISC helped the project publish the Guide to Community Based Environmental Education The project led to the creation of a national network of environmental educators in Poland. A national advisory commitee was formed to enhance credibility and fundraising possibilities. The Plock RCEE has become an established, indepen- dent association. 31 ------- Epilogue The news headlines of 1989 which focused the attention of the world on the Central and Eastern European struggle to improve environmental quality now seems a distant memory. If new headlines were written today to capture the accomplishments that EPA and its Polish partners have achieved together over the past decade, they might look something like this: WATER QUALITY IMPROVED FOR KRAKOW RESIDENTS City Receives State-of-the-Art Disinfection and Analytical Equipment AGRICULTURE RUNOFF IN POLAND REDUCED VIA INNOVATIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES World Bank, European Union Finance Replication of Approach Throughout Poland LANDMARK COMPLIANCE AGREEMENTS CONCLUDED WITH POLISH INDUSTRY Pilot Facilities Gain Provisional Removal from Worst Polluters List Of course, effective environmental protection is an ongoing process. So, in spite of the successes described in the previous pages, there still is much to do in Poland and in the United States to ensure that environmental quality is enhanced and maintained well into the future. Although financial support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will not be available in future years, EPA is confident that the strong relation- ships that have been forged with our Polish partners over the past decade will continue, albeit in a different form. As Poland continues to improve its environment-and as it looks ahead to membership in the European Union and other Western structuresEPA is ready to provide whatever support we can in order to share a bright, sustainable future with our Polish colleagues and friends. For further information on EPA programs in Poland, please visit the EPA website at www.epa.gov/oia, or contact: Anna Phillips U.S. EPA 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (2650R) Washington, D.C. 20460 USA Tel: (202) 564-6419 Fax: (202) 565-2412 phillips.anna@epa.gov Francesca DiCosmo U.S.EPA 1650 Arch Street (3DAOO) Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA Tel: (215) 814-5549 Fax: (215) 814-2901 dicosmo.francesca@epa.gov 32 ------- . ------- &EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (2650R) Washington, DC 20460 Official Business Penalty for Private Use $300 Printed on recycled paper using at least 30% post-consumer paper and soy-based ink. ------- |