The socio-economic impact assessment task within the LIFE21-GIE-PL-INF-ARMY project has been completed. Its primary goal was to analyze changes in the perception of the Polish Army’s environmental protection efforts and assess the project's impact on the attitudes of the Ministry of National Defence employees and local communities. The study provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of project activities and their influence on inter-institutional cooperation, ecological awareness, and socio-economic benefits resulting from the protection of Natura 2000 sites on military grounds.

Scope and Methodology

The task was carried out by an external contractor selected through a public procurement procedure. Contract No. 29/LIFE/2023, dated March 15, 2023, was signed with Łukasz Deryło, a specialist with experience in conducting socio-economic assessments.

Key Phases of the Study

📌 Development of the research concept and methodology – Designing the study framework, selecting analytical methods, and defining the interview approach.

📌 Preparation of research tools – Developing a three-part questionnaire tailored to different respondent groups:

Part I – Questions for the local community (residents, businesses, local authorities).

Part II – Questions for the Ministry of National Defence employees.

Part III – A shared section including respondent demographics.

📌 Field survey implementation – Conducting interviews using the face-to-face method.

📌 Statistical analysis of results – Developing interim and final reports with detailed interpretations of the data.

Implementation of the Study

Phase I (March–June 2023)

100 respondents participated: 46 civilians (residents, local authorities, entrepreneurs) and 54 Ministry of National Defence employees.

A preliminary report was developed, containing an initial interpretation of results and key trends.

Phase II (Q3 2024)

Another 100 respondents were surveyed: 45 civilians and 55 Ministry of National Defence employees.

The final report provided a comprehensive assessment of the project’s impact and long-term effects.

Key Findings of the Study 

1. Increased Ecological Awareness

📈 84% of respondents demonstrated a higher understanding of Natura 2000 sites and their environmental significance.

📌 79% of Ministry of National Defence employees reported a better grasp of their responsibilities in managing these areas.

2. Change in Perception of Military Institutions in Environmental Protection

📊 73% of local residents and civil institution representatives rated the Polish Army's management of Natura 2000 areas as effective.

📌 64% of respondents believe that the military’s conservation efforts should be continued and expanded.

3. Strengthened Intersectoral Cooperation and Coordination

✅ The study confirmed an increase in joint initiatives between the military and civilian environmental institutions.

✅ Respondents highlighted improved coordination between the Ministry of National Defence, local governments, and NGOs.

4. Need for Further Education and Development of Management Tools

📌 67% of respondents acknowledged that the new IT system significantly improved the management of Natura 2000 areas.

📌 There is a clear need for further development of the system and regular training for military personnel and stakeholders.

Further Recommendations and Conclusions

📢 The study results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the LIFE21-GIE-PL-INF-ARMY project. Increased ecological awareness, improved inter-institutional cooperation, and the introduction of new management tools contributed to the achievement of the project’s main objectives.

📌 Key recommendations for the future:

🔹 Continued training and educational activities for Ministry of National Defence personnel and civil institutions.

🔹 Further development of the IT system to enhance access to and analysis of Natura 2000 data.

🔹 Strengthening collaboration with environmental organizations and local governments to maximize conservation efforts.

Summary

The final impact assessment report was submitted to the European Commission along with the project's final report. The findings clearly confirm the positive impact of the project on ecological awareness, inter-institutional cooperation, and the effectiveness of Natura 2000 conservation efforts on military grounds.

The project serves as a model example of integrating environmental protection with military operations, providing a foundation for future initiatives within the Ministry of National Defence.