Some of Challenges Faced by Eco-Neighbourhoods in Poland in Comparison with EcoQuartier Program in France

Abstract

The first attempts to create eco-neighbourhoods date back to 1960's. First they were developed in northern Europe - Denmark and Sweden, but the concept was gradually spreading to other countries including Holland, England, Germany, France, etc... The French National program of eco-neighbourhood certification ÉcoQuartier was initiated in 2012. So far over fifty projects were awarded the certificate and many more are already engaged in the program. Although, there is some criticism, the program is regarded as a real-life laboratory which tests new sustainable solutions and offers additional educational value. The concept of eco-neighbourhoods is relatively new in Poland. New neighbourhoods are being constructed without officially using the term of eco-neighbourhoods. It is an interesting question to compare the new neighbourhoods build in Poland with eco-neighbourhoods in France, certified as ÉcoQuartier's, and determine the challenges and obstacles for Polish neighbourhoods to become eco-neighbourhoods. The Assessment list and guidelines developed by French Government and used to evaluate and certify the projects in ÉcoQuartier program will be used as a reference. The challenges identified include: universal accessibility, access to public green space, mixed-use development, sustainable management of water and soil, energy saving, urban design and cultural environment, architectural quality, economic environment, social capital (e.g. different age groups), risk management, climate change adaptation and protection of biodiversity. Some of the challenges can be overcome with help from the local government. This study, in author's opinion, may be used to start a discussion about implementation of standardized national certification program for eco-neighbourhoods in Poland and maybe in other Eastern European Countries.