Drought – a problem that is becoming increasingly acute, not only for farmers, but for each of us. In the face of advancing climate change, the question is no longer “if” but “how” we can effectively counter its effects. At the “Stop the Drought” conference, experts from various sectors – from government institutions to NGOs and the scientific community – discussed the most important measures we need to take to prevent the disaster.
Is river restoration the key to success? What role can education and cooperation between different sectors play? We present the main conclusions of the debate, which show that only joint action will allow us to meet one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century.
When do we talk about drought?
Drought, according to the Natural Disaster Law, is defined as a natural disaster (an event associated with natural forces) that can escalate to a natural disaster. Hydrological drought, on the other hand, according to the International Hydrological Dictionary issued by the WMO – is a period of exceptionally dry weather, long enough to cause water shortages, as evidenced by low flow rates, lowering of the water table in lakes, a decrease in soil moisture and a decrease in groundwater levels.
Stop drought, start retention
Counteracting the effects of drought is the responsibility of the government, local governments and the Polish Waters. The key document in this regard is the Plan for Counteracting the Effects of Drought (PPSS), which is being developed by the Polish Waters as part of the Flood and Drought Protection Strategy. Work is currently underway to update this document, with completion expected in 2027.
The first conference of the PPSS update project was held today. The event, organized by Wody Polskie (Polish Water), aimed not only to inaugurate the project work, but also provided an opportunity to discuss the measures needed to counter the increasingly severe effects of drought in Poland.
Lessons from the debate – what’s next?
The debate showed how complex the problem of drought is and how many areas require joint involvement – from European policy, to local action, to public education. As Joanna Kopczynska, president of Polish Waters, stressed, nature-based solutions will be considered first in the PPSS update. This aspect appeared in most of the speeches and in the final debate, during which scientists, officials and practitioners jointly considered what steps should be taken to effectively counteract the effects of the drought.
Getting involved in the process of creating the Drought Plan is possible now, before the final document, which will undergo six months of public consultation. Until December 2, 2024, conference participants can submit their expectations for the aPPSS under development by filling out the form available at stopsuszy.pl.
pic. main: Wody Polskie